DIOCESE OF ARLINGTON - Amazon S3
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School
Parent/Student Handbook
2012-2013
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13750 MARY'S WAY
WOODBRIDGE, VA 22191
703-491-4447
FAX 703-492-8828
Regional Catholic Elementary School
Diocese of Arlington
Accredited by
Virginia Catholic Education Association
whose Accreditation process has been approved by the
Virginia Council for Private Education Committee
on accreditation as authorized by
the State Board of Education
This handbook is revised annually. New school policies are highlighted in gray.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION/MISSION STATEMENT 5
Diocesan Philosophy of Catholic Education
DIOCESAN MISSION STATEMENT 5
School Mission Statement/Philosophy 5
Student/Parent Handbook 6
Parental Role 7
Non-Discrimination Clause 8
Non-Catholic Students 8
II. ACADEMICS 9
Curriculum 9
Implementation of Family Life Program 18
Textbooks/Supplemental Materials 19
Technology 19
Testing 23
Homework 23
Suggested Time Allotments 24
Parent-Teacher Communication 24
Scheduling and Other Conference Information 25
Grading/Report Cards 25
Grading System 25
Promotion/Retention/Placement Policy 30
School Counselors 31
III. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES 32
Admissions 32
Diocesan Initial Admission Requirements 32
International Students 13
Class Placement 14
Attendance 35
Diocesan Policy for Attendance Requirements 35
Absence/Tardiness/Leaving School 35
Attendance/Reporting Procedures 36
Transferring to Another School 39
Lunch/Milk Program 40
Arrival and Dismissal 40
IV. GENERAL SCHOOL POLICIES 43
Administrative 43
Student Custody and Guardianship 43
Access to Records 43
Transfer of Records 43
Retention of Records 44
School Visitors 44
School Communications 45
Telephone Use/Messages for Students 45
Inclement Weather/School Closings 46
Photos and Other Media 47
Library 48
Field Trips 49
Overnight Trips 50
March for Life Policy 50
Graduation Requirements/Ceremonies 50
Parent Organizations 51
Fundraising 53
Transportation/Parking 54
V. FINANCES 55
Diocese of Arlington Tuition Assistance Program 55
School Tuition Policies 55
Tuition and Other Fee Schedules 56
VI. CO-CURRICULAR AND EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 58
Participation 58
Transportation of Athletes 58
Supervision of Students 25
VII. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES & BEHAVIOR 65
Code of Conduct 65
Substance Abuse/Weapons 66
Discipline 67
Use of Disciplinary Action 67
Disciplinary Measures 68
Specific Disciplinary Policies 68
Suspension 71
Dismissal 72
Expulsion 72
Student Regulations and Procedures 73
Students and Student Property 73
School Lockers and Desks 74
Care of School Property 74
Dress Code 74
Uniform Requirements & Other Pertinent Information 74
Inappropriate Materials 83
Playground Regulations 83
Lunchroom Regulations 85
VIII. HEALTH, SAFETY & Welfare 86
Student Health, Safety & Welfare 86
Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and/or Child Abuse 86
Wellness Policy 87
Accidents and First Aid 87
Illness 87
Medication Administration Overview 88
Specialized Student Care Needs 89
Life Threatening Allergy 89
Infectious/Communicable Diseases 89
Lice 90
Bloodborne Disease 91
Fire/Emergency Drills 92
Sexual Harassment--Students 93
Bullying 94
Respect For Life 95
IX. STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS 95
X. EXTENDED DAY 97
Extended Day Program 97
Crisis Management/Emergency Preparedness Plan 97
Over-the-Counter Skin Products 97
Licensing information 97
Insurance 99
Tax Information 99
Parental Involvement 99
XI. APPENDICES 107
A. Diocesan Forms:
1. Permission for Emergency Care Form (Appendix F-1)
2. Confidential Health History Update (Appendix F-1A)
3. Virginia School Entrance Health Form (Appendix F-2)
4. Virginia School Entrance Health Form Instructions (Appendix F-2A)
5. Inhaler Authorization Form (Appendix F-3)
6. Asthma Action Plan (Appendix F-3A)
7. Epipen/Twinject Authorization Form (Appendix F-4)
8. Allergy Action Plan (Appendix F-4A)
9. Diabetes Reference Emergency Plan: Hyperglycemia & Hypoglycemia (Appendix F-5)
10. Diabetes Medical Management Plan (Appendix F-5A)
11. Medication Authorization Form (Appendix F-6)
12. Waiver Information/Right to Object Form (Appendix N)
13. Parent Permission Form for School Sponsored Trip Participation (Appendix R)
14. Academic Intervention Plan (Appendix AA)
15. Elementary/Middle School Handbook Agreement Form (Appendix AG-1)
B. School Forms
C. Additional School Information
PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION/MISSION STATEMENT
Diocesan Philosophy of Catholic Education
Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations
Teaching them to carry out everything I have commanded you.
Matthew 28:19-20
These words of Christ addressed to the apostles at the Ascension bestowed on the Church the office of teacher. Obedient to this divine challenge, the Church provides education permeated with the spirit of Christ and dedicated to promoting the full development of the human person.1 The two-fold goal of Catholic schools is to provide an environment which will foster rich religious training as well as solid academic education in a Catholic value-oriented manner.
1 Declaration on Christian Education #3
DIOCESAN MISSION STATEMENT
The Catholic schools in the Diocese of Arlington are an essential component in the educational ministry of the Church. Our schools are committed to providing an education rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ where Catholic doctrine and values and academic excellence prepare each student for a life of faith, service and integrity.
School Mission Statement/Philosophy
Mission Statement
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School is dedicated to providing a Christ-centered environment that allows students to meet their full spiritual and academic potential.
Our Purpose
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School serves the parishes of Our Lady of Angels, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and Sacred Heart as well as the wider community in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, Virginia. It was founded and is partially staffed by the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia Congregation. The charism of the Dominican Sisters gives Aquinas its distinctive character.
The Church recognizes parents as the primary educators of their children. We are committed to aiding parents in developing children who can live their Christian vocation, become productive citizens, and unite with God for all eternity. We believe in the human dignity of each person as unique and unrepeatable.
We follow the teachings of the Catholic Church and apply it in every aspect of our curriculum. Our setting is both traditional and welcoming of new technologies and current teaching practices.
Echoing the Desire of St. Thomas Aquinas
Although Saint Thomas Aquinas lived eight centuries ago, his spirit and philosophy have lived on, not only through his timeless writings, but also through those institutions dedicated, as his life was, to the pursuit of Truth. When he was only five years old, Thomas began his formal studies under the direction of the Benedictine monks of Monte Cassino Abbey. Even from his youth, his soul burned with the desire to know the one truth that gave meaning to all other truths: "What is God"? As the years of Thomas' studies passed, his great desire for a life of prayer and study led him to the Dominican Order, whose motto of "Veritas" or "Truth" mirrored the object of his longings. Within the Order, he encountered the genius and holiness of Albert the Great. Under Albert's influence, Thomas was not only moved to a deeper hunger for study, but also to live more fully the Dominican religious life of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Thomas sought truth wherever it could be found, not fearing to delve into the writings of thinkers of other times and beliefs. Although his reading was so extensive that it enabled him to write one of the greatest syntheses of theological thought of all time, Thomas attested that he learned more at the foot of the Cross than from any book.
In keeping with the legacy of our patron, we at St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School strive first and foremost to nurture in our students a spirit of prayer, sustained by a comprehensive knowledge of truth. This emphasis on the sacred does not, however, negate the value of the secular courses of study. In his Summa Theologica, Saint Thomas wrote that grace builds on nature. The natural gifts of mind and body are the foundation for the greater, supernatural gifts of the soul. By instructing our students in a well-rounded curriculum, we hope to impart to them those truths which prepare them to accept the grace to know, love, and serve God, Who is the source of all Truth.
Reflecting on the life and relying on the intercession of Saint Thomas, who sought God from his childhood, we endeavor to instill, even in the very young, a love for learning and a desire for prayer. It is our goal that through our apostolate of Catholic education, we will each be formed in the spirit of Saint Thomas Aquinas, so that at our lives' ends we will echo his great desire. When asked by the Lord what reward he would have for writing well, Thomas replied, "Nothing, Lord, but Thyself."
Student/Parent Handbook
Each school shall utilize the OCS template to develop and distribute a handbook for students and parents. All local policies and procedures must be in conformity with the Office of Catholic Schools policies, guidelines and regulations.
A committee, representative of the total school community, shall be involved in the development and periodic revision of this handbook.
All parents, along with students in middle and high school, are required to sign a form stating they have read the rules and regulations outlined in this handbook and they agree to abide by those rules (Appendix AG-1). This signature form will be given to students when they receive an electronic copy of the handbook and the form must be signed and returned as soon as possible, but no later than the date when first interim grades are distributed. Failure to have a signed form on file will not prevent the school from enforcing its policies, but could result in disciplinary action being taken and/or prevent a student from enrolling (or continued enrollment) in the school.
All handbooks are posted on the school website.
Faculty and staff members shall be given copies of all school handbooks electronically.
Handbooks and all subsequent changes are subject to prior written approval by the Diocese. To the extent any local handbook or policy statement therein may be inconsistent with the policies, guidelines or regulations of the Office of Catholic Schools, the Office of Catholic Schools policies guidelines or regulations shall be of controlling force and effect.
Parental Role
Since parents have given their children life, the Catholic Church recognizes parents as the primary and principal educators of their children. The Catholic parents' promise at baptism to raise their children as Catholic supports this premise. The Catholic school exists to assist parents in the Christian formation of their children.
In this Handbook, the term parent refers not only to a child's natural or adopted parent, but to a student's non-parent legal guardian or to any person or agency authorized to act in place of parents.
The Diocese of Arlington Catholic schools respects the role of parents as the primary educators of their children. Since the school is a continuation of the education children are receiving at home, Diocesan schools should demonstrate respect and support for the parents in their important and challenging task.
Parents are expected to support the school's mission and commitment to Christian principles; support the school policies as outlined in school handbooks (i.e., annually sign the school’s Handbook Agreement Form). One of the conditions for initial and continued enrollment at the school is receipt of this signed form indicating the parent’s support of the school’s philosophy, policies and regulations. In the event a parent desires to discuss a problem with his/her child's teacher, the parent should make an appointment for a private meeting with the child’s teacher. Teachers welcome the opportunity to discuss a matter of concern with parents before it becomes an actual problem. Any parent who wishes to speak with the principal may do so, but after an initial meeting with the classroom teacher.
If a parent repeatedly or seriously violates proper school protocol, displays inappropriate or disruptive conduct toward students, or displays disrespectful, disruptive or harassing behavior toward teachers or toward school, parish or diocesan staff, the school may take corrective action. Such corrective action may include, at the discretion of the principal (and, for parish schools, the pastor of the parish) the following: imposition of particular rules or procedures the parent must follow in interacting with the school and its students and staff; restriction or termination of the parent’s access to school or parish property; dismissal of the parent’s child(ren).
The school may impose other appropriate corrective action, without prior recourse, based upon the nature of the parent’s conduct and the surrounding circumstances.
As foundation for a faith-community, parents are invited and encouraged to participate in the school’s celebration of prayer and Liturgy.
Parents are encouraged to participate in the programs, which are developed for the education of their children. The wide spectrum of this involvement includes volunteer work, participation in parent-teacher conferences, attendance at meetings and seminars designed to help parents assist their children at home and active involvement in the school's Parent-Teacher Organization.
Non-Discrimination Clause
Catholic Schools, administered under the authority of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington, comply with those constitutional and statutory provisions, as may be specifically applicable to the schools, which prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, age, marital status, disability, national origin or citizenship in the administration of their educational, personnel, admissions, financial aid, athletic and other school administered programs.
This policy does not preclude the existence of single sex schools, nor does it conflict with the priority given to Catholics for admission as students. This policy also does not preclude the ability of the school to undertake and/or enforce appropriate actions with respect to students who advocate on school property or at school functions any practices or doctrines which are inconsistent with the religious tenets of the Catholic faith.
Non-Catholic Students
The presence of students from other faiths provides a wonderful diversity to the school. However, the presence of non-Catholic students in the school shall not alter the primacy of Catholic religious formation as an integral component of the educational program in the school. As such:
• Non-Catholic students are expected to participate in the religious formation and education programs of the school.
• Non-Catholic students must participate in liturgies, retreats, other religious functions and religion classes for credit.
• Non-Catholic students may be exempt from formal co-curricular or extra-curricular sacramental preparation programs but not from the catechesis held during the school day.
• Students are expected, for testing and discussion purposes, to be knowledgeable of the Catholic Church’s positions on scripture, revelation and moral practices. While Catholic teaching respects the various faith traditions of the students attending the Catholic school, parents must be aware that it is the Catholic position that will be taught.
In light of the unique situations which may arise in the educational process, and because it is impossible to foresee all school issues that arise, the faculty and administration reserve the right to address and to take appropriate action for any such situations not specifically referenced in this manual. In addition, in view of the unique and essential religious mission of the school, it is expressly understood that the school may take actions in cases where moral offenses occur which reflect adversely on the school, the Catholic Diocese of Arlington or the Roman Catholic Church, or which interferes with the ability of the school to perform its religious mission or to effectively maintain the intimate working relationship of the school and the Community of Faith.
This handbook may be modified by the school after reasonable notice to the parents/students of the effective date of any changes. Any section headings are for convenience of use, and shall not affect the interpretation of any provisions. If the school should elect not to take action in a particular situation, this shall not be construed or interpreted as a waiver or preclude the school from acting in a subsequent situation of the same or similar kind.
ACADEMICS
Curriculum
Curriculum encompasses the sequentially ordered learning experiences which the school provides for its students. The total curriculum includes the development of Catholic values and attitudes, as well as the attainment of knowledge and skills necessary for the student’s spiritual, moral, intellectual, social and physical development.
The basic curriculum for the school (but not necessarily for each grade level) includes the following subjects: Religion, Reading, Language Arts (English, Spelling, Handwriting), Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Fine Arts (Art and Music), Health and Safety, Physical Education, Computer Education, Library and World Languages
This path would be followed by those students capable of completing High School Geometry in the eighth grade. (Aquinas only offers this option to students enrolled in the STEM program.) See the STEM Program overview on p.9 for more details.
FIVE TO SIX
Prior to entering Pre-Algebra as a sixth grader, the student will have mastered all Diocesan Mathematics Curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through seven.
For Placement in Pre-Algebra in the sixth grade:
Students must satisfy the following criteria:
1. Math Composite standardized test score National Percentile: 96 or above
2. Class grade in 5th grade math: 93 or above
3. End of year diocesan comprehensive test: 80 or above (Recommended time of testing – May of 5th grade year)
4. Favorable teacher and principal recommendation
SIX TO SEVEN)
Prior to entering Algebra I as a seventh grader, the student will have mastered all Diocesan Mathematics Curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through pre-algebra.
For Placement in Algebra I in the seventh grade:
Students must satisfy the following criteria:
1. Math Composite standardized test score National Percentile: 96 or above
2. Class grade in Pre-Algebra: 93 or above
3. Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test results: 85 or above (Recommended time of testing – May of 6th grade year)
4. Favorable teacher and principal recommendation
Because the Algebra I course incorporates numerous word problems that students need to solve, a teacher’s recommendation should take into consideration the reading comprehension standardized test score when making a final decision for placement in Algebra I.
SEVEN TO EIGHT
Prior to entering Geometry as an eighth grader, the student will have mastered all Diocesan Mathematics Curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through Algebra I.
For Placement in Geometry in the eighth grade:
Students must satisfy the following criteria:
1. Math Composite standardized test score National Percentile: 96 or above
2. Class grade in Algebra I: 93 or above
3. Scoring 77% on the Diocesan Algebra I exemption exam
4. Favorable teacher and principal recommendation
This path would be followed by those student identified as capable of completing High School Algebra in the 8th grade. Aquinas only offers Geometry to students enrolled in the STEM Program.
SIX TO SEVEN
Prior to entering Pre-Algebra as a seventh grader, the student will have mastered all Diocesan Mathematics Curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through seven.
For Placement in Pre-Algebra in the seventh grade:
Students must satisfy the following criteria:
1. Math Composite standardized test score National Percentile: 93 or above
2. Class grade in 6th grade math: 90 or above
3. End of year diocesan comprehensive test: 80 or above (Recommended time of testing – May of 6th grade year)
4. Favorable teacher and principal recommendation
SEVEN TO EIGHT
Prior to entering Algebra I as an eighth grader, the student will have mastered all Diocesan Mathematics Curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through pre-algebra.
For Placement in Algebra I in the eighth grade:
Students must satisfy the following criteria:
1. Math Composite standardized test score National Percentile: 93 or above
2. Class grade in 7th grade math: 90 or above
3. Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test results: 80 or above (Recommended time of testing – May of 7th grade year)
4. Favorable teacher and principal recommendation
Because the Algebra I course incorporates numerous word problems that students need to solve, a teacher’s recommendation should take into consideration the reading comprehension standardized test score when making a final decision for placement in Algebra I.
Eighth grade students must satisfy the following criteria to receive credit for Algebra I instruction and placement in the next level of high school math instruction:
1. Passing the Algebra I course
2. Scoring 77% on the Diocesan Algebra I exam
3. Receiving teacher recommendation for placement in the next level of high school math instruction
If a student does not score 77% on the exam, a compelling case made by the teacher through the use of the Teacher Recommendation Form can be forwarded to the high school. The decision of the high school will be final.
St. Albert the Great Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM). Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM The purpose of the St. Albert the Great Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) program is to provide the opportunity for academically able students in grades five through eighth to participate in advanced courses in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math.
The STEM program is a three or four year program of study beginning in either fifth or sixth grade for academically motivated students with the ability and the motivation to succeed in these particular academic fields. The rigorous program of study requires a high level of academic discipline as well as an appropriate maturity on the part of the student. It also requires consistent parental support in order for the student to be successful.
Key elements of the STEM Program include:
• Online learning in conjunction with Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth (CTY) for fifth grade math, earth, life, and physical science.
• An advanced math track enabling students to enroll in geometry in eighth grade
• A bi-weekly lab with a Johns Hopkins instructor at Aquinas in sixth and seventh grade
• A robotics course designed by Carnegie Mellon University in eighth grade
• An advanced technology course weekly
Co-Curricular Activities:
• STEM students are encouraged to participate as part of the Aquinas Science Olympiad team at least once during their enrollment in the program
• A special STEM field trip will be planned during the year
• STEM students will be required to spend one “shadow” day with a professional working in a STEM field and complete the journal/report as assigned
• Once a month, STEM students will be required to attend a STEM seminar meeting after school with their assigned advisor.
Admission Qualifications
Rising 5th grade students:
• must maintain an “A” average in Aquinas math courses
• must score at or above the 90th percentile on the math composite section of the Terra Nova
• must qualify for “summer programs” on the quantitative section of the SCAT administered by CTY
• must achieve a TBD% or above on the 5th grade math placement exam
• must have a positive teacher recommendation
Rising 6th grade students in the STEM program in 5th grade:
• must maintain a “B” average in STEM math course and successfully complete the course
• must score at or above the 90th percentile on the math composite section of the Terra Nova
• must achieve a TBD% or above on the diocesan pre-algebra placement exam
• must have a positive teacher recommendation
Rising 6th grade students not in the STEM program in 5th grade:
• must maintain an “A” average in Aquinas math courses
• must score at or above the 90th percentile on the math composite section of the Terra Nova
• must qualify for “summer programs” on the quantitative section of the SCAT administered by CTY
• must achieve a TBD% or above on the diocesan pre-algebra math placement exam
• must have a positive teacher recommendation
Rising 7th and 8th grade students:
The STEM program is designed as a progressive curriculum with a substantial portion of the diocesan curriculum requirements being covered in sixth grade. Therefore, rising seventh or eighth grade students are not eligible for the STEM program.
Course Offerings
5th Grade:
• CTY Math online. Should complete course 5/6 and test into pre-algebra at the end of fifth grade.
6th Grade:
• Pre-Algebra. (taught at Aquinas)
• CTY Earth Science online with bi-weekly lab
7th Grade:
• Algebra (taught at Aquinas)
• CTY Life Science with bi-weekly lab (first semester)
• CTY Physical Science with bi-weekly lab (second semester)
• Technology (once a week at Aquinas)
8th Grade:
• Geometry (taught at Aquinas)
• Robotics (taught at Aquinas)
• Advanced Technology (once a week at Aquinas)
• Language Arts Advanced
The STEM program is an academically rigorous program which requires both parent involvement and student effort. Students should be productive during class time and should also complete at least 30 minutes of work each night for each class. Parents should actively monitor student progress and help the students to maintain an acceptable pace in their work.
When working through CTY, parents and students should understand that CTY online courses are designed to be self-paced. However, Aquinas has a special working agreement with CTY by which Aquinas students are expected to complete all courses over the course of a regular academic year. If there is a discrepancy in communication, preference should be given to the deadlines, expectations, and/or directives given by Aquinas.
The Application and Admission Process
Application for Current Fifth Grade STEM students and Rising Fifth and Sixth Grade Students New to the Program
Fifth Grade is an introductory year providing the foundation for the accelerated math curriculum in the years to come. Participation in the STEM program is highly recommended by the school. The fifth grade year provides the school, student, and parent the ability to assess a given student’s aptitude for the STEM program before engaging the rigor of the middle school program. Students currently enrolled in the STEM program in fifth grade must re-apply for admissions to continue with the middle school STEM program. Determination for continued admittance will be based on the criteria given below.
Rising 6th grade students currently in the STEM program:
• Complete and submit the STEM application to the school office
• Submit a teacher recommendation form to the students current math teacher
• Admissions is determined according to the qualifications listed above
Rising 5th or 6th grade students new to the program:
• Attend the information night
• Register to take the SCAT test through CTY (see deadlines listed on the program calendar)
• Fill out the St. Albert the Great STEM program application and submit it to the school office
• Submit a teacher recommendation form to the students current math teacher
• Admissions is determined according to the qualifications listed above
Acceptance and Admission
Admission decisions will made in July and parents will receive notification by mail as well as information regarding enrollment fees.
Enrollment and Re-Enrollment
Rising 5th/6th grade students:
• After the admissions process is completed, parents will receive notification of admissions decisions regarding the STEM program along with an enrollment form and fee.
• Parents should complete and return the enrollment form by the due date
Rising 7th/8th Grade Students already in the STEM program:
• After receiving the enrollment packet, parents should complete and return the enrollment form and fee by the due date
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About Testing
• SCAT (and Advanced SCAT) - The School and College Ability Test (SCAT) is a CTY assessment used for admissions to their online and summer programs. Since students in the STEM program also participate in CTY online courses they are required to take the SCAT through CTY. For enrollment in the STEM program, students must have a score on the quantitative section that makes them eligible to participate in “summer programs”. Parents are responsible for registering for individual testing at a testing center and sending a copy of the score report to Aquinas by the date indicated on the calendar of dates below. Our registered school name with CTY is St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School. Our school code is: 2219160. Please see their website for more information about the test, testing registration and locations, as well as practice tests.
• Placement Exams – the Diocese of Arlington has developed placement exams for students entering pre-algebra, and Aquinas has developed a placement exam for fifth grade students entering the STEM program. A practice packet will be sent home by the Aquinas math teachers before the exam and it will be administered in school on the date listed below. A student must make a qualifying score on the placement exam in order to be considered for the STEM program.
• Terra Nova – Students must score in the 90th percentile or above on the math composite score of the Terra Nova. If a student is new to Aquinas and another standardized test has been taken, an equivalent score determined by the school will be used to determine eligibility.
• Algebra and Geometry Exemption Exams – Students planning to attend Catholic high school will take the Algebra Exemption Exam at the end of their seventh grade year. Students must achieve a qualifying score in order to receive high school credit. STEM students who do not pass the Algebra Exemption Exam in seventh grade must repeat Algebra the following year or successfully complete an intensive algebra course offered by one of the high schools over the summer. At the end of eighth grade, students will take the Geometry Exemption Exam at one of the diocesan high schools. The successful completion of the exemption exams is necessary in order for students to receive high school credit at the diocesan Catholic high schools.
Language Art Advanced Course
Based on Terra Nova scores and teacher recommendations eighth grade students may be placed in a smaller advanced language arts course.
MESS: Math Enrichment Student Support
Fifth, sixth, and seventh, grade students meet once a week to enhance knowledge on basic skills. In addition students may qualify for the Math Enrichment program based on teacher recommendation, Terra Nova math composite score of 90 percentile or above, parental permission, and student contract. The goal of MESS is to provide students a way to expand their mathematical minds by using critical thinking skills, computers, calculators, games, and other hands on material.
LAE: Language Arts Advanced
Terra Nova scores and teacher recommendation determine the admittance into the Advanced LA course in 8th grade.
MESS: Math Enrichment Student Support
5th thru 7th grade students meet once a week to enhance knowledge on basic skills. In addition students may qualify for the Math Enrichment program based on teacher recommendation, Terra Nova math composite score of 90 percentile or above, parental permission, and student contract. The goal of MESS is to provide students an opportunity to expand their mathematical minds by using critical thinking and applying concepts using many educational tools to include but not limited to computers, calculators, games, and other hands on materials.
Religious Instruction: Since religion is the distinctive mark of every Catholic school, systematic religious instruction is provided daily at Aquinas. Religious principles permeate the school and are an integral part of everyday living. The student will show a deep interest in religion by diligent study and by taking an active part in religious exercises.
Sacramental Preparation: First Reconciliation, First Eucharist, and Confirmation are received at the respective parishes. Parents are strongly urged to attend the Parent Sacramental Preparation meetings given in the parishes in order to be apprised of the various details involved in the student’s reception of these important sacraments. (The parish may require certain mandatory meetings with parents of students receiving the sacraments.) Communication with the parish religious education office is very important.
Pre-K: The Pre-K developmental program offers students who are 4 years old on or before September 30 a full range of spiritual, cognitive, social, emotional, and physical opportunities for growth. Currently, there are two Pre-K sessions that meet daily. Session 1 meets from 8:00 to 11:00 AM (Monday - Thursday), and Session 2 meets from 12:00 to 3:00 PM (Monday-Thursday), Session 1 meets each Friday from 8:00-10:45 AM and session 2 meets each Friday from 11:15-2:00 PM. Each group meets with one certified teacher assisted by one aide. There is a mandatory Pre-K Parent orientation scheduled at the beginning of the school year.
Kindergarten: The full-day kindergarten curriculum program provides an atmosphere conducive to building a solid educational foundation and love of learning. It is a preparation for first grade. Each child should be allowed to make choices, build responsibility, work with others cooperatively, and express ideas verbally and non-verbally. The children grow in learning to work independently, follow directions, and lengthen their attention span. Through the conscious development of carefully planned instruction, the child is introduced to the fundamental areas of religion, language, math, social studies, science, fine arts, library skills, computer, and physical education. The kindergarten provides a developmentally appropriate, hands-on approach to learning. Readiness skills focus on the joy of learning which prepares the child for continued success.
Elementary
Grades one through five: The students work through a challenging curriculum in religion, reading, English, composition, math, social studies, science, handwriting, spelling and vocabulary. Each student is personally enriched by music, art, computer, Spanish, and physical education classes. The classroom science classes are complemented by students working in the science lab once a week with a full-time lab instructor. Grades one through four are self-contained classroom settings, while grade five is partially departmentalized.
Middle School: Grades Six, Seven, and Eight: In grades six through eight, the basic subjects continue to be taught, but all classes are departmentalized. Students attend classes in the core classes: religion, English, Literature, Math (including the possibility of Algebra I in eighth grade), Science, Social Studies, and Spanish. Our middle school Spanish program provides the opportunity for students in the eighth grade to take the Spanish placement test and potentially begin Spanish II in high school. Middle school students also participate in weekly art, music, technology, and PE classes. In addition to academic and special classes, our middle school students participate in a weekly household lesson that focuses on the development of the whole person including their spiritual, human (inter/intrapersonal), and ministerial development.
Physical Education: As part of the curriculum all students are required to participate in regularly scheduled physical education classes, unless they have a written note from a physician stating they are physically unable.
Music and Band: Students in grades K-8 attend music class once a week. Included in the curriculum is music for singing and appreciation. Students in the grades 4 through 8 may participate in the school choir. Students learn liturgical music for participation in the weekly school Mass and other devotional activities. (In the event a music teacher is unavailable, music classes will not be held.) Students in grades 4-8 may take instrumental music and participate in the school band. Additional fees are required to participate in this program.
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School is not responsible for instruments left in the building.
ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES: The curriculum is enriched with a variety of academic and spiritual activities. These consist primarily of the following:
Athletics Grades 6-8
• Fall- Football, Boys Soccer, Girls Volleyball, Cheerleading
• Winter- Boys and Girls Varsity Basketball, Boys and Girls JV Basketball, Boys Wrestling, Girls Cheerleading
• Spring- Boys Baseball, Girls Softball, Girls Soccer, Boys Lacrosse, Girls Lacrosse (sometimes instructional)
Clubs Elementary-Middle School
Club availability varies from year to year. Examples of clubs are: Money Club, Chess Club, Guitar Club, Computer Club, Year Book
Fine Arts
Band, Grades 4-8, Choir Grades 4-8, Middle School Musical
Implementation of Family Life Program
Catechesis in Sexuality is an important and sensitive component of a comprehensive program of catechesis. According to the Second Vatican Council, "As they (children and young people) advance in years, they should be given positive and prudent sexual education." Education in sexuality includes all dimensions of the topic: moral, spiritual, psychological, emotional and physical. Its goal is training in chastity in accord with the teaching of Christ and the Church, to be lived in a wholesome manner in marriage, the single state, the priesthood and religious life.
Students in grades 6-8 participate in a human sexuality course provided through the Diocese of Arlington.
Textbooks/Supplemental Materials
Book Rental
Textbooks/supplemental materials are rented from the school. If a student loses a book, he/she will be charged a $50 (textbook) / $15 (workbook) replacement fee. Marked or damaged books are subject to $10 extra rental charge. Students in grades 5-8 are issued a Math CD, if the CD is lost or damaged a $65 replacement fee will be charged. Hardback books will be covered at all times. School approved book covers will be used to cover all student textbooks. All books /CDs must be returned in good condition and any fines for library or text books must be paid in full.
The school purchases initial school supplies on behalf of each student from funds collected as part of the Student fee. Additional supplies will be provided throughout the year to the extent the entire class needs replenishment. Replacement of individual supplies that have been lost or destroyed are the responsibility of the individual student.
Each student is expected to arrive to class prepared and ready to learn. Parents are asked to make sure lost or broken supplies are replaced promptly.
Technology
There is no expectation or right to privacy or right to freedom of speech when using the school’s computer resources, which are the school’s property. Any use of the School’s computers and Internet access must be in support of education and research and be consistent with the educational objectives of the Office of Catholic Schools.
Using school facilities for Internet access and e-mail is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use which includes but is not limited to unauthorized transmittal or improper use of copyrighted materials or materials protected as trade secrets; transmission of threatening or obscene materials; vandalism of computer files; and violation of computer security as determined by the school administration can result in a cancellation, denial, suspension and/or revocation of those privileges by the school administration and also subject the user to other disciplinary action. Where appropriate, the school should submit a completed Internet Threat Report form to the Superintendent of Schools and to the local police department. Vandalism is defined to include any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, the Internet or any agencies or networks connected to the Internet. The creation and/or uploading and/or downloading of “computer viruses” are expressly prohibited.
Additional responsibilities for use of school facilities for the Internet and e-mail are:
1. When using networks or computing resources of other organizations, students must observe the rules of that organization regarding such use.
2. Users should not reveal their personal addresses or phone number(s), and shall not reveal the personal address or phone number(s) of others without their authorization/permission.
3. Users are reminded that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. Operators of the network/system have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.
4. Students shall immediately notify the system administrator/school administration if they suspect that a security problem with the system and/or the Internet exists.
5. Any attempt to log onto the Internet or the school’s network/system as a systems administrator will result in a loss of user privileges at the school. Any user identified as a security risk by the school administration/systems administrator due to a history of actual or suspected unauthorized access to other computer(s), network(s) or system(s) may be denied access to the school’s computers, networks and/or systems.
6. Users shall abide by generally accepted rules of network etiquette, which include but are not limited to:
a. Messages to others shall be polite and shall not be abusive. Messages shall use appropriate language and shall not use obscenities, vulgarities or other inappropriate language. Use of the network shall not disrupt use of the network by others.
7. The Diocese/schools make no warranty of any kind, whether express or implied, for Internet service. The Diocese/school will not be responsible for any damages suffered. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries or service interruptions caused by its own negligence or user errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the user's risk. The school specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.
Email may be used as a form of communication between parents and administrative staff for business purposes as deemed appropriate by the administration. The school uses email as a form of communication of school news and events.
• Abuse of this email policy can result in your email address being blocked by the school administration.
• Parents should not use email for solicitation purposes.
Email Communication Policy for Parents
Below are the guidelines and expectations to follow when using electronic communication.
Parents may send email to teachers under these circumstances:
1. In reply to a teacher’s email
2. Asking a question that does not need an immediate response
3. Setting up an appointment for the future, either in person or via the phone
4. Advance notice of a student’s absence or tardiness, so homework can be given to a sibling or classmate. Please make sure you email by 8:00AM the day of the absence to ensure the email is received.
Parents should not email teachers under these circumstances:
1. In response to a disciplinary measure
2. To ask a question that needs an immediate answer
3. To express disagreement with a classroom policy, procedure, activity, etc.
Additional Notes for Parents:
• Expect a minimum 48 hour response time to an email.
• Email is not the forum to hold lengthy discussions requiring explanations.
• Teachers reserve the right to respond to an email with either an email or a phone call, as they see appropriate for the subject matter.
• If you, as a parent, prefer an email response, please say so. If email is not the proper method of communicating on the subject, an email reply requesting a phone call or face-to-face meeting may be sent by the teacher.
• Include a phone number, as well as a good time to reach you, should the subject matter be deemed inappropriate for email.
• Abuse of this email policy can result in your email address being blocked by the school administration.
Acceptable Use Policy
Computer use and Internet access is encouraged and made available to further education and research in an academic setting consistent with the mission of the Diocese of Arlington, Office of Catholic Schools. Computer and Internet access may be used only for academic purposes. Internet access is provided at times and places determined by each school under the direction and supervision of the school staff. Files stored on school computers are restricted to school-related assignments only. Telecommunication is restricted to school-related projects and must be supervised by the teacher and/or staff.
The Internet contains extensive information on a variety of subjects. There is no privacy on the Internet; therefore, personal or identifying information should not be provided concerning anyone in the school. Many laws, including those related to copyright infringement, harassment, slander and obscenity apply to Internet use.
Acceptable Use policies
The Diocese of Arlington administrators, faculty and staff have the right to restrict student computer activities at any time if, in their judgment, a student is not following the spirit of the Diocese of Arlington Acceptable Use Policy. Students at Diocesan schools are prohibited from using school computers for any of the following activities: (This list is not meant to be all-inclusive)
Internet access for private or commercial business. Violate any local, state, federal or international laws that apply to computer or Internet use, including but not limited to copyright infringement, plagiarism, software licensing, harassment, slander and obscenity.
Acceptable Use Policy – Elementary Schools, Grades K-5
1. I will not damage the computer or network in any way.
2. I will not use a computer or hand-held device to harm other people or their work.
3. I will not violate copyright laws.
4. I will not view or use other people’s folders, files or work without their permission.
5. I will not view, send or display offensive messages or pictures, or harass others in any way.
6. I will not access my personal e-mail account or any free e-mail services from any
school computer.
7. I will not record any personal information, such as name, address, etc., about myself for anyone else on an Internet site.
8. I will not view Internet sites that my school or teacher does not allow or thinks are inappropriate.
9. I will not represent other people’s work as my own (plagiarism).
10. I will tell any adult immediately if I see materials that violate these rules.
11. I understand that all electronic files are subject to review by the administration.
Students will be prepared to be held accountable for their actions and for the loss of privileges if the Acceptable Use Policy is not followed.
Acceptable Use Policy – Middle and Secondary Schools, Grades 6-12
1. Access, produce, transmit and/or retransmit material advocating or promoting violence or hatred against individuals or groups, promoting destruction of property or containing sexually oriented material.
2. Hack, infiltrate or “sniff” school or outside computers’ accounts, or networks, or attempt to establish or establish contact into school-restricted computer nets or any other unauthorized databases. Users will not access, transmit, and/or retransmit material requiring a password or security authorization without legally possessing such password or authorization.
3. Commit or attempt to commit any willful act which disrupts the operation of any school outside computer or network. For example, users will not release viruses, worms, spam, e-mail bombs, or other files that cause a disk to fill up, a network to bog down, or a software application to crash.
4. For games, non-academic surfing and chatting, gambling, non-academic multimedia listening or viewing.
5. Send, store or intentionally receive inappropriate or frivolous e-mail. All electronic communication must be polite, respectful, and contain no obscene, vulgar, degrading or defamatory language.
6. Use or include the school’s e-mail address in non-school web pages.
7. Use encryption software from any access point within the Diocese of Arlington.
8. Bring computers from home into school. Computer/network/Internet access during school hours will be restricted to school owned equipment only.
9. Use school computers to enter chat rooms or for online messaging.
10. Downloading and/or installing software is prohibited. This includes copyrighted software, shareware and freeware.
11. Use of any school equipment to duplicate any bootleg software is strictly prohibited.
12. Modifying school computers, including additions, deletions and changes of software, settings preference, properties, or account customization is strictly prohibited.
Testing
The school’s testing program is intended to assist teachers and administrators in a systematic evaluation of the academic and religion programs, to diagnose students’ strengths and weaknesses and to aid in revision of the curriculum and planning of instruction.
In addition to academic tests for grading purposes, the school will administer standardized religion and achievement tests according to the diocesan testing program. All eighth grade students take the high school placement test used in determining placement in diocesan high schools. Eighth grade teachers are encouraged to review only the format and style of the high school placement test with their students.
Homework
In order to reinforce daily work and develop good study habits, the school promotes specific homework policies.
Although homework has different purposes at different grades, homework is required at all grade levels. The amount of homework a child may have on any given day will vary depending upon the nature of the assignment, the amount of work the child completes in school that day and the speed at which the child completes his/her work at home.
Parents may not fax or email to school their child’s homework. Homework that is dropped off in the school office will not be delivered until the end of the school day.
Suggested Time Allotments
Pre-K 0 minutes
Grade K 10-15 minutes (parental help suggested)
Grades 1&2 10-30 minutes
Grade 3 10-30 minutes
Grade 4 30-60 minutes
Grade 5 30-60 minutes
Grade 6 30-60 minutes
Grade 7 60-120 minutes
Grade 8 60-120 minutes
Homework is assigned on a regular basis. Since achievement cannot be attained without study and attitude is connected to successful study, parents are urged to help the child realize that study and the review of assignments are as vital as any written work and are an important part of character building. Parents must not do their children's homework.
Daily homework time does not include long-range assignments/projects. In most instances, students will need parental guidance with time management skills. These time allotments for homework must, of necessity, be flexible. All children vary in their abilities to perform any task. Parents should provide proper conditions in the home, and, as far as possible, a specific time span in which work for school can be done.
Aquinas assignment notebooks will be provided by the school, and will be used by all students in grades 1-8. These are the only assignment books that will be used in these grades.
Parent-Teacher Communication
Teachers are expected to be reasonably available to parents throughout the school year to keep the lines of communication open in the best interest of the students. Parent-teacher conferences can be scheduled throughout the school year if necessary. Parents should first privately contact a teacher with any concerns about a student or class concerns before seeking intervention by the school administration.
Scheduling and Other Conference Information
Parent-teacher conferences are formally scheduled once a year. The first report card is given out prior to the parent-teacher conference held in November. Parents are encouraged to inquire and discuss the progress of their child at any time during the school year. To make an appointment with a teacher, a parent should leave a message on their voicemail or you may send an email requesting an appointment. The teacher will return the call or email within 48 hours.
Grading/Report Cards
Overall evaluation of the student must be based on teacher judgment and observation of the student’s daily work, class participation, effort and performance on teacher prepared tests (to include but not be limited to projects, portfolios and other tools of assessment).
The purpose of report cards is to alert the parents and present to them an assessment of their child’s achievement in his/her academic studies.
Students with identified disabilities who have a current IEP or Student Assistance Plan should receive an asterisk on their report card grade when modifications have been made to the curriculum. A modification changes the content, instructional level or student work load of subject matter or tests. Conversely, accommodated programs should not be denoted.
Grades K-2 Primary Academic Progress Criteria. The percentage range utilized for reporting grades on assignments, homework, tests, etc., is only one aspect of the assessment for determining the academic progress grade given on the progress report. The other aspects for each rating are critical factors in reaching the given rating. The letter M, P, or NI is indicated in the appropriate box on the report card for each subject area. An * (asterisk) indicates a modified curriculum.
M Student meets grade level standards – student consistently meets skill
P Progressing towards grade level standards – student is still developing skill
NI Needs Improvement – student is not demonstrating skill
M: Meets Grade Level Standards – Child consistently meets skill
Consistently meets established goals for achievement and contributions Consistently understands, transfers, applies and expands learned skills
• Consistently applies problem solving and critical thinking skills across the curriculum
• Consistently shows original, creative and intuitive thinking beyond standard expectations
• Consistently remains self-directed in his/her assignments
• Consistently finishes assignments within time limits
• Earns 85-100 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
P: Progressing Towards Grade Level Standards – Child is in process of developing skill
• Progressing towards expected goals for achievement and contributions
• Transfers learned skills with teacher direction
• With teacher direction, applies problem solving and critical thinking skills in other curriculum areas
• Progressing towards demonstrating original, creative and intuitive thinking
• Requires appropriate teacher direction to complete his/her assignments
• Progressing towards finishing assignments within time limits
• Earns 75-84 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
NI: Needs Improvement – Child is not demonstrating skill
• Does not meet established grade level goals for achievement and expectations
• Is inconsistent in transferring, applying, or expanding learned skills
• Is inconsistent in applying problem solving and critical thinking skills in other curriculum areas
• Is inconsistent in completing his/her assignments
• Needs additional teacher direction to satisfactorily complete his/her assignments
• Earns less than 75 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
Grades 1-2 Primary Report Card. Specials, Effort, and Personal Development Criteria.
The below criterion is used for subject skills under the main academic portion and for effort, specials and personal development portions of the progress report for grades 1-2.
3 VERY GOOD
• Goes beyond established goals for achievement and contributions
• Understands, transfers, applies and expands learned skills
• Applies problem solving and critical thinking skills across the curriculum
• Shows original, creative and intuitive thinking beyond standard expectations
• Consistently remains self-directed in his/her assignments
• Consistently finishes assignments within time limits
• Consistently earns 90-100 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
2 SATISFACTORY/GOOD
• Meets expected goals for achievement and contributions
• Transfers learned skills with teacher direction
• With teacher direction, applies problem solving and critical thinking skills in other curriculum areas
• Demonstrates originality, creativity and intuitive thinking
• Requires appropriate teacher direction to complete his/her assignments
• Finishes assignments within time limits
• Earns 76-89 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
1 IMPROVEMENT NEEDED
• Does not meet established grade level goals for achievement and expectations
• Is inconsistent in transferring, applying, or expanding learned skills
• Is inconsistent in applying problem solving and critical thinking skills in other curriculum areas
• Is inconsistent in completing his/her assignments
• Needs additional teacher direction to satisfactorily complete his/her assignments
• Earns 70-75 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
U UNSATISFACTORY
• Is not meeting the above criteria
• Earns below 70 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
Grades 3-8 Academic Progress Criteria. Grades 3-8 will use numeric (percentage) grades. Grades below a 70 will be designated on the report card automatically by the administrative software. An * (asterisk) indicates a modified curriculum.
Grades 3-8 Specials, Effort, and Personal Development Criteria. The below criteria should be used for effort, specials, and personal development portions of the report cards for grades 3-8.
3 VERY GOOD
• Goes beyond established goals for achievement and contributions
• Understands, transfers, applies and expands learned skills
• Applies problem solving and critical thinking skills across the curriculum
• Shows original, creative and intuitive thinking beyond standard expectations
• Consistently remains self-directed in his/her assignments
• Consistently finishes assignments within time limits
• Consistently earns 90-100 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
2 SATISFACTORY/GOOD
• Meets expected goals for achievement and contributions
• Transfers learned skills with teacher direction
• With teacher direction, applies problem solving and critical thinking skills in other curriculum areas
• Demonstrates originality, creativity and intuitive thinking
• Requires appropriate teacher direction to complete his/her assignments
• Finishes assignments within time limits
• Earns 76-89 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
1 IMPROVEMENT NEEDED
• Does not meet established grade level goals for achievement and expectations
• Is inconsistent in transferring, applying, or expanding learned skills
• Is inconsistent in applying problem solving and critical thinking skills in other curriculum areas
• Is inconsistent in completing his/her assignments
• Needs additional teacher direction to satisfactorily complete his/her assignments
• Earns 70-75 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
• U UNSATISFACTORY
• Is not meeting the above criteria
• Earns below 70 on tests, assignments, projects, reports, etc.
Edline
Report cards for students in grades 1-8 are issued quarterly. Parents and students have access to student grades through Edline. Since parents and students have access to grades through Edline, interim reports will not be sent home.
Teachers in grades 3rd through 8th will update grades every week throughout the school year. Teachers in grades 1st through 3rd will update the grades by mid-quarter.
Teachers are responsible for communicating grades and conduct concerns to parents so that, no parent should be unaware of a low grade or a low conduct or effort mark at the time of the report card. Notification to parents during the quarter can prevent most academic failures and correct undesirable traits in conduct and effort, as well as help the teacher with developing a rapport with parents.
Corrected papers for students in grades 1-5 will be sent home weekly in the Tuesday folder will reflect the student progress, which is reported on Edline.
All teachers will annotate * missing grades with standard codes available through Grade Quick, as follows:
• a absent, missing work
• l late, missing work
Teachers use the follow indicators to communicate status of grades for assignments that are missing:
• x student is exempt from this assignment
• ** zero - no credit given, missing work, but may be made up*
• 0 final zero –
Note:
1. The default indicator ** is a zero. Showing missing work as a zero will help students and parents know the importance of the missing assignment.
2. Once the teacher will no longer accept missing work, the grade is changed from ** to zero or exempt.
3. A notice will be put in the school newsletter notifying parents that interim grades have been posted.
Pre-K and Kindergarten progress reports are issued in January and June. A letter is sent home to the parents after the first and third quarter as a means of communication with the parents of the student. Pre-K parent teacher conferences occur in January and Kindergarten teachers schedule conferences with all parents in November.
For grades 1-3 students will only receive an effort grade in Spanish. Students in grades 4-8 receive an academic grade in Spanish.
For Middle School Grading Only: All middle school students take semester exams in January and June. The exam grade is part of the second and fourth quarter grade.
HONORS
Students in grades 3-8 may receive honor roll ribbons at the end of each quarter with the distribution of their report cards. The following criteria are used for the St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Honor Roll. Specials refer to art, music, PE, technology (grades 3-5 only) and Library.
Angelic Doctor Honors: All 93’s or better; all conduct, study and work habits, specials, and effort grades between 1-3 with no more than two 1’s in any area; no U’s in any area.
St. Dominic’s List: All grades must be equal to or greater than 85, with at least 5 grades equal to or greater than 93; all conduct, study and work habits, specials, and effort grades between 1-3 with no more than two 1’s in any area; no U’s in any area.
St. Cecilia’s List: All grades must be equal to or greater than 85; (or any combination of numeric grades which do not meet the St. Dominic List criteria) all conduct, study and work habits, specials, and effort grades between 1-3 with no more than two 1’s in any area; no U’s in any area.
Three personal development, specials, and/or effort grades of a “1” (needs improvement) in any area will disqualify a student from any honor roll. A “U” (unsatisfactory) in any area also automatically disqualifies a student from the honor roll.
Students in grades 4-8 will receive grades in all specials subjects they may be taking
during any given semester. For special classes, students will receive a rating of 1-5 based on effort. (1 for outstanding effort, 5 for unsatisfactory effort.) The last report card will be mailed to parents after school closes. Please note that report
cards can be held for any violation of school policy, practice, and/or behavior contrary to the mission of the school.
* Indicates modified curriculum
Academic Program
A numbered grade is indicated in the appropriate box for each subject area.
* (asterisk) indicates modified curriculum
It should be noted that for Primary Progress Reports, the established scale (1 -5) has not been designed to be synonymous with the traditional letter grades (A, B, C, D, F).
Grades 4-8 use numeric grades. Below 70 is designated by an F.
Codes for Social and Work Characteristics
ME Meets Expectations
NI Needs Improvement
Codes for Effort and Arts & Skills:
Outstanding
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Unsatisfactory
Grading System (Schools adopting New Report Card)
Grades 1-2
M Meets Grade Level Standards – Child consistently meets skills
P Progressing Towards Grade Level Standards - Child is in process of developing skill
NI Needs Improvement – Child is not demonstrating skill
Academic Progress Scale
The letter M, P or NI is indicated in the appropriate box for each subject area.
* (asterisk) indicates modified curriculum
Grades 3-8 use numeric (percentage) grades. Below 70 is designated by an F.
Indicators for Effort, Specials and Personal Development:
3 Very Good
2 Satisfactory/Good
1 Needs Improvement
X Unsatisfactory
Promotion/Retention/Placement Policy
A major goal of the school is to assist students to complete each academic year satisfactorily. The repetition of a grade is recommended when it is deemed by the school to be necessary and advantageous to the particular needs of the student.
• The final decision to promote or retain a student is based on the student’s academic performance and best interest as determined by the principal.
• Teachers will notify parents if their child is not progressing satisfactorily toward a passing grade in the course.
• Elementary students failing one or two academic areas must successfully complete summer school or another program approved by the principal in order to be promoted to the next grade. If a student fails three or more core academic subjects, the student will not be promoted to the next grade.
• Students who have not successfully completed summer school or another program approved by the principal but would not benefit from being retained in the grade may be “placed” in the next grade level; however the school must prepare and implement an “Academic Intervention Plan” for the student as a condition of placement.
School Counselors
School counselors are available to confer with students in areas which may extend beyond academic matters. While the conferences are generally confidential, the counselor may need to disclose certain information to parents, school administration or other authorities.
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School has a full-time school counselor.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
Admissions
Diocesan Initial Admission Requirements
Students who desire an educational experience founded on the Catholic philosophy of education and who fulfill the age, health, academic and behavioral requirements are eligible for admission to the school.
The school sets registration procedures and admission policies. The availability of space and the order of preference for admission is determined by the school according to the following general criteria:
Children from the parish
Children from parishes without schools
Children from parishes with schools (for sufficient reason)
Children from non-Catholic families
If approved by the pastor, and where practicable, the siblings may receive special consideration.
Age for Admission to Kindergarten
Children who will have reached the age of five years by September 30th may be admitted to a kindergarten program. Readiness testing, at the discretion of school officials, may be used to determine, among other things, the developmentally appropriate placement in the kindergarten program. Readiness testing (fine/gross motor, speech, and language screen) is required for kindergarten entry and within 60 days of school admission for new students in grades 1 – 3. Additional school readiness testing may be conducted at the discretion of school officials. In those cases where the school has sufficient reservations regarding the potential for success, those students may be admitted on a conditional basis with dates and criteria of evaluation established in writing; however, the decision of whether to extend or remove conditional admission status should be made by school officials at their discretion.
Requirements for School Admission: Pre-school – Grade 5
1. Presentation of an original birth certificate (schools are expected to keep a copy of the certificate on file)
2. Baptismal certificate for Catholic students
3. Proof of custody where applicable
4. Current report card and previous academic years’ report card as applicable
5. Current standardized test scores and previous years, if applicable
6. Completed Diocesan Application Form (Appendix J)
7. A non-refundable application fee
8. A fully executed MCH-213 Commonwealth of Virginia School Entrance Form or equivalent, which stipulates the following must be submitted prior to the student beginning school:
1. Proof of exact dates of immunization as required by the Code of Virginia
2. Current Certification of Immunization
3. Physical examination covering all required aspects as mandated on the MCH-213, within 12 months prior to entering school for the first time. Equivalent school entrance physical forms from another state may be acceptable. (Note: A preschool physical does not take the place of the required kindergarten entry physical unless it is completed within 12 months prior to kindergarten entry.)
9. Proof of satisfying tuition requirements at any former Diocesan school if previously enrolled in a Diocesan school
Requirements for Admission to Grades 6 – 12
1. Presentation of an original birth certificate (schools are expected to keep a copy of the certificate on file)
2. Baptismal certificate for Catholic students
3. Proof of exact dates of immunization
4. Records from previous school, including standardized test scores
5. Proof of custody where applicable
6. Completed Diocesan Elementary or High School Application Form (Appendix J)
7. A non-refundable application fee
8. If previously enrolled in a Diocesan school, proof of satisfying tuition requirements at that former Diocesan school.
General Conditions of Admission
A student is admitted to the school on the premise the student intends to learn the Catholic religion and be educated in a Catholic environment. In certain cases, students may be admitted on a probationary basis subject to the student successfully completing one or more subsequent interim evaluations. Students with academic or other needs (i.e., behavioral), which cannot be reasonably addressed by the school may be denied admission.
School application forms may request disability-related information. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not prohibit a school from asking questions about a student’s disabilities provided that information does not discriminate (automatically prohibit a student from applying).
International Students
The Diocese of Arlington endeavors to remain certified by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service to admit F-1 Non-Immigrant students. The school, therefore, adheres to the following policies for enrolling non-U.S. persons:
A. International students who apply for admission to a Diocese of Arlington Catholic school will be considered for admission, upon meeting the following conditions:
a. Meets Diocesan admission requirements as stated in Policy 601.2;
b. Currently holds or is in the process of obtaining an F-1 (Non-Immigrant) student visa;
c. Resides at the same U.S. address as the guardian;
i. Guardian cannot house more than two international students;
d. Pays tuition in full upon school admission;
i. There is no refund given for registration, tuition or other related fees;
1. The F-1 (non-immigrant student) status applies to those aliens who are in the United States for the purpose of attending school. Once a student is determined to meet the school's requirements for admission, the family must contact the Office of Catholic Schools or other "designated official" to process the Certificate of Eligibility for Non Immigrant (F-1) Student Status form for eventual admission and stay in the United States as an F-1 student. International students who enroll in a school in the Diocese for the first time must provide documentation they are free from communicable tuberculosis.
2. For students who hold a visa other than F-1, refer to Appendix AJ (Nonimmigrants Who Can Study); International students who are currently in B-1, B-2, F-2 or M-2 status cannot begin their studies prior to approval of their change to F-1 (Non-Immigrant) student. Obtaining a change of status is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.
B. Any student applicant whose passport, United Nations travel document or other Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) documents indicates that the student is a refugee, asylee, parolee, lawful non-immigrant[1] or permanent resident may be admitted to the schools of the Diocese of Arlington under normal requirements for admission. This policy would also include undocumented children.
Class Placement
The principal/administration and faculty reserve the right to place students in a class which is consistent with the results of the student’s prior academic records and any admission testing.
Parents may not request a particular teacher for their child. The child’s present teacher and the principal work together to place students in the most favorable learning environment possible to accommodate their individual learning styles. Twins are normally placed in separate rooms.
Students Not Returning
If a student is not returning for the upcoming school year, parents must notify the office in writing no later than March 1.
Likewise, parents must send written notification to the Principal if they are withdrawing their child during the school year. Tuition payments may be adjusted only after written notification is received.
Attendance
Diocesan Policy for Attendance Requirements
In order to achieve the goals and objectives of the curriculum, regular attendance by the student is mandatory.
The school (K-8) is normally in session not less than 180 days per academic year or the length of time as required by the Virginia Catholic Education Association.
• Once a student is enrolled in the school, the principal/administration and teachers will insist on regular attendance. Neither the Diocese, the Office of Catholic Schools, the school nor any of its employees are, however, responsible for ensuring actual attendance. This is the responsibility of the student's parent(s)/guardian(s).
• Students in grades kindergarten through grade eight who miss ten or more days of the school year, whether excused or unexcused, and who have not satisfactorily completed the required work, may be considered for retention. Certification of absence by a physician is an exception to the ten-day limit. However, satisfactory completion of required work is still required.
Absence/Tardiness/Leaving School
In order to ensure continuous progress in school, regular attendance and habits of punctuality are essential. The school defines proper procedures as:
1. A written excuse, explaining the reason for absence and signed by the parent, must be presented upon a student’s return to school.
2. Persistent absences may cause serious academic problems (including but not limited to course failure) and could result in the dismissal of the student. The administration or the class teacher will normally review the matter with parents before a decision is made by the administration. Persistent absences may also result in the student being subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
3. Except in cases of emergency as determined by the principal/administration and/or a faculty member (as applicable or necessary), a student may only (a) be released from school with the prior written authorization of the student's parent, or (b) leave the school grounds with the prior authorization from the principal/administration.
Tardiness
The tardy student will normally be subject to appropriate disciplinary action by the school administration or by the class teacher.
A student who is tardy, as determined by local policy, should report to the principal's office
or attendance office.
A student who arrives late with an excused reason (i.e. doctor’s note) is counted tardy.
The student who is tardy due to unexcused reasons may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Frequent cases of tardiness should be brought to the attention of the principal so that the parent may be contacted.
Absences for Other Reasons
When parents wish to take their student out of school for several days for personal and/or medical reasons, the parents should discuss the student's progress with the teacher. However, the school is under no obligation to provide a tutor, make-up work or special testing schedules for such a period of absence. The administration has the sole discretion to determine the conditions and terms governing such absences.
Attendance/Reporting Procedures
Absence
Vacation: Parents are asked to plan family vacations during the scheduled breaks from school. Parents are asked not to extend the school’s scheduled breaks by leaving early or returning late. Vacations are not permitted outside of scheduled breaks, and are considered unexcused absences (see below). The 4th quarter will end the last day of school. Parents should honor this when planning vacations.
Verification of Absences: Parents must notify the school office by 9:30 AM each day a student is absent. If a student is absent and the school has not been notified, the office will contact the parents. In addition, students must bring a note from parents explaining any absence from school when they return. Any absence not explained by a note will automatically result in an unexcused absence, and all unexcused absence policies will apply (see below).
Excused Absences: Absences will be excused for the following reasons after verified contact with the parent or guardian, to include a written explanation of the absence:
➢ student illness
➢ medical and dental examination and/or treatment of the student when such appointments cannot be scheduled other than during school hours
➢ student participation in school-sponsored activities taking place during school hours (no note necessary)
➢ death in the immediate family
¬ emergency conditions in the student’s home which require special help from the student in caring for the sick or injured
Unexcused Absences: Absences other than those mentioned above, or any absences without a written explanation from parents, will be considered unexcused. In the case of an unexcused absence, the following policies apply:
¬ Teachers will not instruct again.
¬ Teachers will not provide make-up assignments.
¬ Students may receive zeros for all missed work.
Work Missed Due to an Absence: Work is not issued ahead of time for students who anticipate being out of school whether for excused or unexcused reasons. Students may obtain and make up missed work only if the absence is excused.
Make-up Assignments: Make-up assignments are the student’s responsibility. Upon returning to school, students should check the master assignment book or follow the teacher’s directives. In the case of extended absences, exceeding two days, parents may request books and homework through the school office by 10:00 AM and pickup between 3:00–3:30PM. Students are responsible for scheduling with their teachers any missed quizzes and tests.
If a student has an excused absence for one day, class work missed is due the day after the student returns. The student is given one day for each day absent in which to complete and turn in missed work. For example, any work missed on Monday would be due on Wednesday.
Tardiness
A student not in his/her homeroom after 8:00 AM is considered late. Students will be issued a late pass, and the student will then proceed to class. The student will present the late pass to their teacher, and the student’s name will then be removed from the absentee list. Students who arrive after 8:15AM must be accompanied by an adult, who will then sign them in at the receptionist’s desk.
Late arrival at school will be excused for the following reasons:
• situations arising from unusual weather conditions;
• unusual delays due to major traffic congestion;
• medical, eye, and dental examination and/or treatment of the student.
Although these late arrivals are considered excused, students must still report to the school office, and all tardies will appear on the student’s report card.
Students receiving special services that leave school early or arrive late are not marked absent or tardy.
Due to the detrimental impact of tardies on the instructional program, more than 16 unexcused tardies in one school year may result in the student being retained. Four tardies in a quarter is considered excessive. Parents should make every effort to be on time for each school day. Arriving at 7:50 AM is ideal, giving the students time to put their things away and get ready for their day
The tardy student will normally be subject to appropriate disciplinary action by the school administration or by the class teacher.
A student who is tardy, as determined by local policy, should report to the principal's office
or attendance office.
A student who arrives late with an excused reason (i.e. doctor’s note) is counted tardy.
The student who is tardy due to unexcused reasons may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Frequent cases of tardiness should be brought to the attention of the principal so that the parent may be contacted.
Medical excuses
No student who has a communicable disease will be permitted to attend school.
If a child becomes ill during school time and needs special attention, the parent or guardian will be contacted. If the school is unable to locate the parent or guardian, one of the other names noted on the emergency sheet will be called. No student will be sent home without permission of the parent or one designated to take the place of the parent.
Any medication (prescription or over-the-counter, including Tylenol and throat lozenges) dispensed at school will require written permission and direction from the parents on a form provided by the school (See Appendix). Parents will hand carry all medication to the school clinic. All medication will be kept in the container issued by the pharmacy. All medication will be kept in the clinic and will be dispensed from there. No student may keep any medication in his/her possession, or administer his/her own medication.
When a suspected case of chicken pox, measles, impetigo, hepatitis, mumps, conjunctivitis (pink eye), streptococcal infections, scarlet fever, head lice, or any other communicable disease is reported, the parent will be called immediately to take the child home.
A student suffering from any communicable disease will not be allowed to attend school during the contagious period. Students may be required to bring a note from a physician if they are absent for more than three days.
Good health is necessary in order for a student to perform well in school. Students who are ill with a fever should be free of the fever for 24 hours before returning to school.
Anticipated absence
Work is not issued ahead of time for students who anticipate being out of school. Work that is missed can be obtained and made up upon the student’s request if the absence is an excused one. Students will follow the directives for make-up work as previously stated.
Release of students
Parents Going to the Classroom: Parents coming to school for dismissal of a student are to go to the office to sign the student out. THEY SHOULD NOT GO TO THE CLASSROOM, since no student may be released from school when proper procedures are not followed.
The office staff cannot call any student for early departure within 30 minutes of dismissal. Since the school day ends at 3:00 PM each day, no child will be picked up later than 2:30 PM for an early dismissal. The end of the school day is busy for teachers and staff. If a student has an appointment after school, pick-up will be made before the above stated time. Siblings and students who ride to and from school with Aquinas sports players may not leave school early to attend a sporting event. Parents must make other arrangements for transportation for their children.
Parent /school cooperation is critical to ensure constant supervision of children. The school will be informed of individuals who are forbidden access to a student. While only parents or persons authorized by parents and made known to the principal have access to students in our care, there are circumstances when written custody/court documentation must be on file. Please speak directly to the principal concerning these sensitive areas.
Any change in plans for the student leaving school must be in writing and bear the signature of the parent for all students. This is for the students’ protection, for the legal protection of the school, and the peace of mind of all concerned. Cooperation and patience are requested when the school asks for clarification of plans. At all times the school will be overly cautious in releasing a student when circumstances appear unusual.
Transferring to Another School
The school must be notified in writing by the parent(s) of a student regarding a decision to transfer a student to another school, including the last day the student will attend classes at school. All school-owned materials such as textbooks and library books must be returned to school and all fees paid before leaving. Scholastic information will be sent to the new school upon a “Release of Student Records Form” from the new school. All fees and tuition MUST BE PAID prior to the release of the student’s records.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Volume 41, No. 118, pg. 24673 allows academic records, (Permanent record, attendance, test scores), be released without parental permission. Everything else requires parental consent.
All records of student progress will be sent to the office of the next school a child will be attending. They may not be hand-carried by parents. A record release form must be signed by a parent or legal guardian before the school will transfer academic records. If the request is more urgent, there will be a $10 charge.
Teacher recommendations are written in good faith by the teacher and are not permitted to be read by the parent. The teacher will mail the recommendation directly to the applicant's perspective school. Parents need to allow 2-3 days for recommendations for student to be completed.
Lunch/Milk Program
Rules for acceptance and participation in the U.S. Department of Agriculture Child Nutrition Programs are the same for all students without regard to race, color, sex, age, handicap or national origin. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against in any USDA related activity should write to the Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, DC, 20250.
Aquinas has a five day a week optional hot lunch program available to students in
grades K-8. Simply go to the Aquinas website and click on the cafeteria menu under student life or the Fairfax Food Service & Caterers web site . This will bring you to the page that shows the month for ordering and a “Shopping Cart”, please click on shopping cart and follow Fairfax Food Service ordering instructions. No refunds will be given for snow days or for students who are absent on a hot lunch day. The meals are pre-ordered and the caterer will provide the quantity requested. The program will be run as it has in the past by a coordinator and a staff of volunteers.
Students bringing lunches from home may purchase milk, ice cream, and other snacks at school during lunch periods.
Payment for milk will be made through the school office at the beginning of the school year. Students who buy milk periodically, and not on a regular basis, will purchase milk directly from the "volunteer milk mothers". Students are not allowed to bring soda, energy drinks, or Gatorade to school for lunch.
Arrival and Dismissal
School is in session from late August until June. The school day begins at 8:00 AM. Prayers and announcements are at 8:00 AM. All students should be in their classrooms by the first bell at 7:57 AM. Time is provided for lunch and a short daily recess.
Kindergarten is a full day session (8:00 AM-3:00 PM). Pre-K classes are held Monday through Thursday from 8:00–11:00 AM, and from 12:00 AM-3:00 PM. On Friday, classes are held from 8:00-10:45 AM and from 11:15-2:00 PM.
MORNING DROP-OFF: School office hours are from 7:35 AM until 3:20 PM. The school is not responsible for students brought to school before 7:35 AM or left at school after 3:20 PM. Parents who must leave their child before 7:35 AM must make arrangements with Extended Day or with another day care facility. After 7:35 AM, students must report to the school Hall.
Students arriving before 7:35 AM or left after 3:20 PM will be considered in Extended Day and will be charged accordingly AT THE NON-REGISTERED/EMERGENCY RATE OF $15/HOUR. Extended Day services are provided from 6:30 AM till 8:00AM and 3:00PM till 6:00 PM Monday through Friday. No Extended Day services are provided when school is not in session.
AFTERNOON DISMISSAL: On a regular dismissal day students are dismissed immediately following 3:00 PM closing prayers and announcements. Kindergarten students leave the building at 2:55 PM. Students may not remain at school after dismissal unless they are registered at Extended Day or are participating in a school activity. The faculty and staff supervise all dismissals. Parents are requested to cooperate with them to make dismissal as safe and efficient as possible.
Students walk to the cars. Parents and/or carpool drivers will wait in the open area of the parking lot if they are driving students home. Safety is always a high priority, but this is especially true at dismissal. We encourage everyone to be conscious of the safety of all who are in the parking lot at dismissal time.
Pets. Even if restrained on a leash, pets of any kind are not permitted outside of cars in the parking lot or in the school.
Please read and follow the following drop-off and dismissal procedures. It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure that anyone who drives students to school or collects them at dismissal is familiar with the following arrival and dismissal procedures.
MORNING DROP-OFF PROCEDURES
• Enter school grounds from Mary’s Way.
• Drive to the far end of the parking lot following route closest to St. Vincent de Paul building.
• At the end of the parking lot, bear left until your car is parallel to the sidewalk adjacent to the church.
• Vehicles will be given a signal to begin a second row.
• Please wait for direction before turning right onto the street between the church and the chapel.
• Follow the street and bear left at the front of the school staying as close to the curb as possible.
• Continue around the circle (always driving close to the curb) stopping at the end of the faculty parking area.
• When the car in front of you stops to allow students to disembark, you should do the same.
• Exit the parking lot to Mary’s Way always following the car in front of you. If passengers from the car in front of you are not finished disembarking, but yours are, please wait. Do not pass any cars to exit.
All students will disembark at the building and come into the school by themselves. If it is necessary for you to come into the building, please drop your child off following normal drop-off procedures, park your car in the parking lot, and come into school. It is dangerous to have children walking where so many cars are moving. All students should be in their classrooms by 7:57 AM. Please allow plenty of time, so you are not in a hurry. Do not enter or exit the parking lot by any other route other than Mary’s Way.
AFTERNOON PICK-UP PROCEDURES
• Enter school grounds from Mary’s Way.
• Parents should not begin parking at the bottom of Easy street until PE classes have cleared the parking lot.
• Fill in rows across the parking spaces, row by row, facing the chapel and church.
• Only 5 vehicles may park in each row.
• No parking along the back fence adjacent to St. Vincent de Paul.
• Parents should immediately gather their students and proceed to their cars so that dismissal can begin as quickly as possible.
• When the signal is given, the row of cars closest to Mary’s Way will begin to leave by going left to Mary’s Way.
• At the same time, the row of cars closest to Easy Street will begin to leave by going right to Easy Street
• Both exit routes, Mary’s Way and Easy Street, will allow drivers to enter Route 1 going north or south.
The first in line parking slots at the top, closest to Mary’s Way and at the bottom closest to Easy Street are reserved for auction winners.
If drivers arrive after 3:20PM, they should wait until the parking lot is dismissed, then they will be signaled to drive around to pick up students or riders. Students who are left after 3:20PM will be sent to extended day and charged the non-registered/emergency rate of $15 per hour. If the students are registered with the Extended Day Program they will be charged according to the current rates.
3:00-4:00PM $4.50 per child per day
3:00-5:00PM $9.00 per child per day
3:00-6:00PM $13.50 per child per day
GENERAL SCHOOL POLICIES
Administrative
Student Custody and Guardianship
At the time of school entry or at any other time where a change in custody status/arrangements occurs, it is the responsibility of the parent(s) to provide the principal/administration with a true and correct copy of the legal document for any student for which there is a legal custody agreement or for any student not residing with his/her parent.
School communication with the appropriate guardian is essential. Accordingly:
a. Custodial parents should identify in writing other adults who may have access to information regarding their child.
b. Non-custodial parents may receive information (when requested) regarding the child unless specific documentation to the contrary is provided in the legal custody agreement.
Access to Records
Parents have a right (unless prohibited by the courts in a custody agreement) to the timely inspection of the educational records (cumulative and confidential) of their child during school hours. The school shall respond to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of the records.
If the education records of a student contain information on more than one student, the parents are limited to the specific information about their child only.
Student records shall be open to authorized school personnel only (principal, assistant principal and those to whom they extend access within a given year.)
The School administration may elect to provide at cost photocopies of a student’s educational records to parents, but documentation is to be stamped "unofficial."
Transfer of Records
Schools may disclose a student’s cumulative record (i.e. Permanent Record card, attendance card, test results) to another school with legitimate educational interest provided a written request for such records, or when those individuals to whom the custodial parent has given written permission, have requested the child's records to be released. Parent signature is required for release of a student’s confidential file (i.e. special education records, psychological reports, disciplinary records, anecdotal information or reports by the school counselor).
Only copies of student records may be released. Original Cumulative Health Record and MCH-213 transfer with the student.
Parents may not hand-carry records to another school, except under extraordinary circumstances. If this occurs, the records are to be placed in a sealed envelope and marked "hand carried."
As a general rule, each school, at the discretion of its principal, shall have the right not to certify the student's graduation or provide transcripts of the student's academic record to third parties such as other schools, colleges or employers, or to issue a Certificate of Diploma to the student, if there has been a breach of a material condition of the contract (i.e., failure to meet financial obligations, infractions against the school’s code of conduct).
Parents are obligated to share educational/psychological testing results and any resulting plan with the school. If a student has a documented disability, a copy of the Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Individualized Services Plan (ISP), 504 plan and/or Student Assistance Plan (SAP) should be maintained in the student's confidential file. The refusal to provide such information is grounds for terminating enrollment in the school.
Confidential records for dis-enrolled students are merged with the students’ cumulative files.
RETENTION OF RECORDS
The following student records are to be retained indefinitely:
Permanent record card (to include transcripts, attendance record and standardized test results)
The following student records are to be retained for 25 years:
• IEP/ISP or 504 Plan
• Student Assistance Plan
• Eligibility Minutes
• Student Assistance Team minutes
The following student records are to be retained for 7 years or age 25 whichever is greater:
• Application
• Counselor notes
• Discipline notes
• Court Documents
• Psychological reports
School Visitors
All persons other than school staff and currently registered students must first report to the school office immediately upon entering school grounds, sign-in and wear an identification tag when visiting the school.
Visitors or volunteers receive an identification tag noting the location they are visiting. They must notify the receptionist when changing work locations.
Aquinas alumni will be permitted to visit former teachers only after 3:00 PM.
School Communications
Principal’s Communication
Any communication from the Principal to parents/guardians can be in the form of writing, email, or a telephone call. If parents/guardians wish to speak with the Principal, please call the school office during regular school hours and an appointment will be made.
Take-Home Communication
All materials prepared by parents for release to the parish or school community must be approved by the Principal or his/her designee.
[OCS 803]
Each Tuesday an Aquinas Connection and school flyers will be emailed and posted to the Parent page of the school website. A folder will be sent home on Tuesday for grades Pre-K through 5 and will contain graded tests, quizzes, papers, notes, etc. The folder will be signed by a parent and returned in a timely manner.
On the weeks when there is a Monday holiday, the folder/Connection will be sent home on Wednesday.
Parents are encouraged to inquire and discuss the progress of their child at any time during the school year. To make an appointment with a teacher, a parent should leave a message on their voicemail, send a written note, or email the teacher. The teacher will return the call during a free period or after school hours within 24 hours. Teachers should return written communication within 48 hours.
Teachers will communicate a more specific communication framework on back to school night.
Telephone Use/Messages for Students
Students will not be called out of class for telephone messages. If the matter is urgent, the message should be given to the receptionist. The receptionist will then call the teacher who will give the message to the student. No student will use a cell phone during school hours. If an emergency arises and proper permission is granted from the office and/or from the teacher, students may use the phone in the school office.
Students will not call home for items they may have forgotten (books, lunches, assignments, musical instruments, etc.)
Messages and deliveries must be made through the school office. This includes lunches, books, and musical instruments. No messages will be delivered to students after 2:30 PM, and only emergency messages will be delivered at any time.
Students may not use cell phones at any time during the school day. All student cell phones must be off during the day.
Inclement Weather/School Closings
In addition to the traditional 180 school days, schools should add at least three extra days to the school calendar each year to accommodate days off due to inclement weather or other non-weather related emergencies. In the event these inclement weather/emergency days are not used, schools may dismiss for summer after completing the required 180 school days. If, however, during the course of the year, the school uses more than three inclement weather/emergency days, it is not necessary for the school to extend its school year beyond the 183 budgeted days, provided the school has surpassed 1080 hours of instructional time (as defined by the Commonwealth of Virginia).
If during the course of the year, the school uses inclement weather/emergency days, it may be necessary to modify the published school calendar.
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School normally follows the directives issued for Prince William County (PWC) when road or weather conditions or other emergency situations are severe making it impractical to operate school. The school’s website and telephone will also announce closings. Parents are asked to refer to the website or call the school phone system when radio and TV stations do not broadcast the announcement. On days when we anticipate a coming snowfall, teachers will send students home with extra books. When school is cancelled due to inclement weather, teachers of grades 1-8 will post daily assignments on Edline by 9:00 AM. Students will be responsible for this work to be completed and returned when school resumes. Teachers will update Edline for subsequent days in the case of extended closures. This will require the following of our parents:
• All parents were asked to set up an Edline account in the fall. Any parent who has not set up his/her account should do so by contacting the office and setting up a time to do so.
• On mornings when the school is closed for inclement weather, parents should check teachers’ Edline pages after 9:00 AM for that day’s work. (and each day for subsequent inclement weather days)
• Students should complete the work on the snow day and return it to his/her teacher(s) when school resumes.
• For families who do not have internet access, please contact your child’s homeroom teacher this week to set up alternative arrangements.
It is to be assumed that Aquinas will follow PWC unless Aquinas makes an announcement to the contrary. To do so Aquinas will use the school messenger system.
In the event that the principal finds it necessary to announce an unscheduled closing of school or if Prince William County schools are closed and it is not a school holiday for St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School, the school messenger system will be used, as well as a posting on the website, and email.
Faculty and Staff will not receive a separate announcement. The school messenger system or the phone tree will only be used to notify a decision that is contrary to PWC.
If the announcement for Prince William County is "to open two hours late" on a day that dismissal for St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School is scheduled for 12 noon or 2:00PM Aquinas will then open two hours late and have a regular dismissal at 3:00 PM that day. Another early dismissal day may have to be scheduled. Hot lunch will be served on days when a 2 PM dismissal was scheduled. Milk and snacks will be sold as usual.
On days when the opening of school is delayed, Pre-K sessions will be as follows:
Session 1 10:00-12:00 PM
Session 2 1:00-3:00 PM
Extended Day: When school opens late due to inclement weather or other emergency situations, the morning session of Extended Day will delay opening, and will end when school opens. (For example, if school opening is delayed two hours until 10:00 AM, the morning session will delay opening for two hours until 8:00 AM.)
When school closes early for any emergency situation, there will be no Extended Day. Children must be picked up as soon as possible.
Photos and Other Media
The Office of Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Arlington (OCS) and any of its schools may produce or participate in videotape, audio recording, Internet (i.e., Website) or still photograph productions that may involve the use of students' names, likenesses, or voices. Such productions may be used for educational and/or school marketing purposes and may be copied or copyrighted with the school retaining any and all rights to such productions.
You have the right to object to the use of your child's name, picture, or voice in these productions and may do so by completing the Waiver Information/Right to Object form that can be requested from the office and returning it to the principal. If the form is not received by the office, we will assume that you waive your right to object. All student or parental publications are subject to review and approval by the school administration prior to publication.
Library
All books chosen for classroom reading in Diocesan schools must be appropriate for students not only in age level and reading ability but also for the moral development which we are working to foster. All books shall conform with Diocesan policies and guidelines regarding Catholic education.
Parents or teachers who object to reading or audio-visual/computer materials must complete an Objection to Content Form (Appendix K) and submit it to the school principal. A review committee (to include an Office of Catholic Schools member) will subsequently discuss the objection and decide the disposition of the challenged material. The parent or teacher initiating the review should be personally notified of the results of the review.
Kindle Touch Acceptable Use Policy
Kindle Touch is an eReader: a convenient, portable reading device capable of holding up to 3,000 books, magazines, and newspapers. The size of a paperback, content is wirelessly downloaded onto the device. Containing two preloaded dictionaries, The New Oxford American Dictionary and the Oxford Dictionary of English, students are able to instantly look up unfamiliar words. Each Kindle is valued at $125, including case, screen protector, and USB cable.
Parent Responsibilities and Permission
Parents grant permission for their child to borrow a Kindle Touch from the library for reading and learning use. They agree to help ensure the safe and timely return of the device within the loan period. Parents are financially responsible for any damage, accidental or purposeful, to the device, case, or USB cable as well as any charges resulting from accidental/purposeful content downloaded to the Kindle Touch. If a child fails to abide by the Diocese of Arlington Acceptable Use Policy for student computers as well as this policy, he/she may lose future library loan privileges and face disciplinary action subject to the principal’s discretion.
Student Responsibilities and Permission
Students may have the privilege of borrowing a Kindle Touch provided they return this signed parental consent and student agreement form. By signing this permission, students consent to use this device in a responsible and appropriate manner and to abide by the provisions set forth in the Diocese of Arlington Acceptable Use Policy regarding use of student computers. Students agree to return the Kindle Touch in good working condition no later than the conclusion of the loan period. Students will not:
• throw, drop, or damage the Kindle Touch
• carry it in a book bag without having it sealed in the plastic storage bag provided
• give the device to another student for use
• leave the eReader in an unsupervised area (auditorium, classroom, on desk, etc.)
• download, purchase, or remove content on the Kindle Touch
• change any settings on the Kindle Touch
Failure to comply with the Diocese of Arlington Acceptable Use Policy for student computers and this Kindle Touch Acceptable Use Policy and Permission may result in loss of library loan privileges and disciplinary action subject to the principal’s discretion.
Book Renewal Policy
1. Students are given a one-day grace period to return library books without being accessed an overdue fine.
2. Students interested in renewing a library book must have the book with them. If they do not have the book with them on the due date, they will be unable to renew and, or check out additional books.
3. Fine and overdue notices will be sent home in the weekly folders. If your child receives a library notice, please resolve the matter promptly so they may continue to enjoy their library book privileges.
Field Trips
• Field trips are privileges planned by teachers and approved by the school administration with educational purposes as the primary objective and in light of financial considerations.
• Field trips are considered an extension of the school day and the code of conduct will apply.
• A student must give to the sponsoring teacher a permission form signed by a student's parent(s) prior to a student participating in each activity (Appendix R).
• In the event private automobiles/vehicles of students, parents or other authorized adults are to be utilized to transport students on field trips, the drivers and/or the vehicle owners must have a valid driver's license and sufficient liability, medical and uninsured motorist insurance coverage as defined by the Diocesan Risk Manager. Evidence to this effect must be presented to the principal/administration for review and approval prior to the use of such vehicles. The principal/administration shall have the right to prohibit for any reason a proposed driver from transporting students on a field trip.
• Parents/guardians are to be furnished with detailed written information about the field trip, and must be given the opportunity to “opt out” their children from the field trip.
• Teachers and other school employees should not drive students in their personal vehicles.
• It should also be understood, in light of world conditions and specifically threats of terrorism against Americans, it may be necessary to cancel school-sponsored trips due to world and national developments at any time.
• School-sponsored ski trips are not permitted.
Parents will always be notified in advance concerning field trips, and students will be allowed to go on the trips only if the school has the written consent of the parents. (See Appendix)
Occasionally parents may accompany students on school-sponsored trips. Individual classroom teachers will notify parents if additional chaperones are necessary. Parents designated as chaperones should not bring siblings on field trips.
Daily medications, epi pens or inhalers will be sent on any fieldtrip for a child who has these medications and required paperwork on file in the clinic. Should the need arise, teachers / school employee will administer medications.
Even if parents accompany students on field trips, students must go and return from the trip with their class.
Parents will be notified of the departure and arrival times of all trips. If it has been predetermined that students will return from a trip later than normal dismissal time, parents will pick up their children at the time that the teacher has specified. Late charges will be levied on parents who arrive late to collect their children in accordance with the late fee policy as specified for normal school dismissals.
Overnight Trips
Overnight trips are not permitted for elementary school children.
March for Life Policy
Students are offered varied opportunities to participate in activities that promote the sanctity of life.
Based on the principal/administration’s decision, students in grades 7 and 8 may be permitted to participate in the March for Life as a school and/or parish sponsored activity. Field trip procedures will be followed. Students in grades K through 6 will not participate as a group in the March for Life. Students with written parental permission may accompany their parents on the March for Life.
Students who accompany parents on the March for Life should not be marked as absent for that day.
Graduation Requirements/Ceremonies
The school does not guarantee the award of a degree or any certificate of satisfactory completion of any course of study to students. In order to qualify for graduation, students must satisfactorily complete (by attaining a passing grade) all courses as required by the Diocese of Arlington and the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition students must comply with all school regulations and policies.
The principal shall have the right to withhold certification of a student's graduation or provide transcripts of the student's academic record to other schools, or to issue a Certificate of Completion to the student, if there has been a breach of a material condition of the contract (i.e., failure to meet financial obligations or infractions against the school’s code of conduct).
• Graduation ceremonies should be characterized by dignity and due consideration for practical and economic realities.
• A celebration of the Eucharist should be held for the graduates close to the date of graduation.
• There is also an 8th grade field trip, a graduation dance, and an 8th grade awards breakfast scheduled. [OCS 619]
All 8th grade students are required to purchase a graduation cap and gown through St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School or to use a cap and gown purchased from Aquinas for an older sibling.
Class Parties
In order to provide the appropriate academic time, the number of class parties is carefully planned. The following parties are permitted for all grades: A Christmas party and an end of the year party. Parties for the following holidays are permitted for grades PK-3: Halloween and Valentines Day. Other parties are generally not allowed, but may be allowed with the express permission of the principal.
Birthday parties are not permitted; however the “Birthday Club” allows parents to order ice cream for their student’s class through forms that will be sent home.
Party Invitations
Students may not distribute party invitations at school.
Parent Organizations
Parent-teacher (and/or home-school) organizations are sponsored by the school to promote a cooperative effort at meeting certain needs of the student body. The parent organization is subject in all respects to the control of the school. All parent organization activities and all materials prepared by parents must be submitted to the principal/administration for approval prior to implementation and/or distribution.
Persons nominated to serve as a PTO board member must receive the approval of the pastor and principal.
The parent organization should strive:
1. to serve in an advisory capacity to support the principal/administration;
2. to provide a means by which parents can respectfully articulate their values and expectations regarding the school so that these can be examined and addressed by the principal/administration;
3. to support and promote quality Catholic education at the school;
4. to encourage Catholic values of family life;
5. to share with teachers the values that parents are attempting to develop with their children at home;
6. to acquaint parents with up-to-date information concerning current developments in educational initiatives as they may affect the school so that they can be in a better position to promote the legitimate rights of their children;
7. to unify parents in an effort to raise funds each year for the school.
The PTO is an essential component in St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School education ministry of the Church. The PTO is committed to supporting the Parents, Teachers, Administration, Staff, and Students in providing an education rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ where Catholic doctrine and values, and academic excellence prepare each student for a life of faith, service, and integrity.
In addition to the goals listed above, the St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Parent-Teacher Organization will:
• Provide a means through which parents can articulate their values and expectations regarding the school so that these can be examined and addressed by the appropriate school authority. The PTO is not an official hearing board of the school administration.
• Unify parents in an effort to raise funds each year for specific school events that benefits the parents, students, and alumni. Fundraising efforts will be planned in advanced with ample notification for parents to participate.
• Gain parental involvement and awareness through personal invitation.
PTO Membership consists of PTO Committee Chairs (PCC), Sub-committee event coordinators, and Aquinas parents at large. Membership of the PCC shall comprise of a husband and wife team or the parent in the case of a single parent family. To the maximum extent possible the teams will represent the three parishes that encompass the regional composition of St. Thomas Aquinas Regional Catholic School.
The PCC shall have the responsibility for conducting the PTO business and for reviewing and acting upon PTO events.
The officer’s positions include the Chair of the Core, Treasurer, Spiritual Life Chair, Athletics Chair, Performing Arts Chair, Academic Enrichment and Extra-Curricular Activities Chair, Faculty and Staff support Chair, and Community Events and Hospitality Chair, and Volunteer Coordinator Chair.
The PTO shall have six (6) meetings during the school year. The frequency of the meeting shall be one every other month commencing in July.
The PTO Sub-committee meetings shall be scheduled by each committee chair. The frequency of the Sub-Committee meeting shall be as required to ensure the event assigned to the Sub-Committee is successful. Committee Chairs will provide status updates on all Sub-Committees until the event/activity is completed.
A general meeting will be held twice (2) during the school year to encourage parent participation and communicate the PTO goals and objectives for the school year. These meeting shall be held at Back to School Night and Open house for Prospective Families.
FundRaising
Any program of fundraising at the school must have the approval of the pastor and the principal/administration. Fundraising activities should be organized and executed so that the school program is not interrupted. Students may participate in and cooperate with worthy collections and fundraising projects conducted by the school or parish.
Since tuition does not cover the entire cost of educating a child, St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School balances its budget with an Annual Appeal Drive and other fundraisers each year. Each parent is expected to contribute to these efforts for the good of the students.
The Development Office oversees the annual fund-raising calendar. This calendar is created in the spring of each year. No fundraisers can be added once the school year begins. The addition of fundraisers during the school year is at the discretion of the principal. No fund-raisers are permitted without the express permission of the principal.
Classroom Money (Collection / Reimbursement and Purchase) Guidelines
In an effort to simplify and streamline the money handling process, strengthen our internal controls, and satisfy our auditors, the following Aquinas money handling guidelines and procedures have been established:
Collections and Deposits:
o All monies collected at the school are sent to the front office to be accounted for by a designated person
o All deposits are made by the business manager
Check Requests:
o Parents may submit an itemized check request to your homeroom teacher for initial approval and a check directly to the vendor prior to the purchase using Class account funds.
o Checks are requested by Tuesday at noon and cut Wednesday afternoon
o For all purchases under $50, you may submit a request to your homeroom teacher for your expected reimbursement and provide the receipts as soon as available. Nominal overages and initial outlays can be reimbursed through petty cash.
Class Accounts:
Each grade level will have an account for the school year. There is only a notational separation between homerooms. Funds are allocated each year from the student fee to cover planned classroom events and field trips. Each teacher is responsible for their homeroom budget and is the primary contact for funds usage.
Middle School Class accounts
Primary objective: Middle school class accounts will be funded through an annual Middle School Fundraiser starting in 6th grade. The funds raised by each grade will accumulate in their class account until 8th grade. At that time, funds may be drawn to pay for 8th grade graduation expenses.
Graduation expenses will include:
• Evening Graduation reception
• Awards Breakfast
• Graduation t-shirts
• End of year field trip
• Class gift to the school
As with all grades, funds collected through the student fee will cover planned classroom events and field trips.
It is anticipated that if each student participates in the annual middle school fundraiser at a level equivalent to the buy-out, there should be sufficient funds for those expenses listed above. If necessary, the 8th grade would be permitted to participate in an additional fundraiser to supplement their funds.
Transportation/Parking
There are car pools organized for transporting students. Inquire at the school office for more information concerning these car pools.
Parents may make arrangements with private childcare facilities for the drop off and pick up of their children. The school office must be notified if these arrangements are made.
There is no school bus that services St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School students.
LOST AND FOUND
Articles lost by students are kept in a designated area outside the school office where they may be claimed by the student or parent. Articles not claimed after a reasonable length of time will be given to charitable organizations. Parents will mark all articles with the child’s name. Students will not bring valuable items or large sums of money to school.
FINANCES
Diocese of Arlington Tuition Assistance Program
Application Process & Requirements
1. All school families participating in the program must submit the same application form (available in English and Spanish) along with a processing fee payable to the private vendor.
2. To be eligible for receiving funds from this program, students must satisfy all of the criteria described below:
• A baptized Catholic or convert officially received into the Church
• Family resides within the boundaries of the Diocese of Arlington
• Family is registered and an active member of the parish
• Student attends or is accepted by a Catholic school in the Diocese of Arlington
3. The deadline for submitting applications to the contracted vendor is determined annually. Applications received after the stated due date will be considered for tuition assistance if funds are still available.
4. Although students from families residing on local military bases are not domiciled in a Diocesan parish, those students are eligible for the Diocese of Arlington Tuition Assistance Program.
5. The funds from the program will be paid directly to the school that the qualifying student attends. Schools will credit the tuition accounts for those families who have been approved to receive aid for that school year.
School Tuition Policies
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School tuition and fees may be paid in full by June of the current school year
OR
Payments may be made monthly for up to 12 months from either a checking or savings account beginning in June and ending in May for each school year through FACTS Tuition Management Company.
A annual $38.00 FACTS registration fee will be charged to your bank account by FACT Tuition Management Company.
The monthly FACTS payment is calculated by adding the tuition amount and the applicable fees and prorating the payments over 12 months, if beginning in June and ending in May. All monthly payments must be completed by May of the current school year.
2012-2013 TUITION AND FEES
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Institution FACTS ID# is 827. The Facts Tuition
Management website may be accessed through the school’s website.
Tuition and other Fee Schedules
|Number |PARISHIONER | | |
|of |Our Lady of Angels |NON-PARISHIONER |NON-CATHOLIC / |
|Children in |St. Elizabeth Ann Seton | |NON-ACTIVE CATHOLIC |
|Grades K-8 |Sacred Heart | | |
| |Annual cost not |Monthly cost |Annual cost not |Monthly cost |Annual cost not |Monthly cost |
| |including fees |including fees |including fees |including fees |including fees |including fees |
|one | $ 5,315 | $ 457 | $ 5,685 | $ 488 | $ 6,055 | $ 519 |
|two | $ 9,830 | $ 844 | $ 10,515 | $ 901 | $ 11,200 | $ 958 |
|three | $ 13,020 | $ 1,120 | $ 13,925 | $ 1,196 | $ 14,835 | $ 1,272 |
|four | $ 15,145 | $ 1,308 | $ 16,200 | $ 1,396 | $ 17,255 | $ 1,484 |
Pre-K Tuition $3,070 per year not including fees or $270 monthly including fees
APPLICATION FEE $35 per student. Paid when the application is submitted. (non-refundable)
REGISTRATION FEE $50 per family. Paid after acceptance. Included on invoice for tuition. (non-refundable)
STUDENT FEE $125 per student (non-refundable). The Student Fee is assessed
per student for PTO dues, field trips, classroom events, Youth Rally, testing materials, classroom parties, and school supplies including composition books, pencils, crayons, scissors and other necessary items.
Tuition may be paid in full or in monthly payments through enrollment in the FACTS Tuition Management Company. As stated in the handbook, the first month’s tuition and all fees are non-refundable. You will be invoiced from the Business Office based on your completed and signed Tuition Contract and Parish Confirmation form. Your registration is not complete until you have established your FACTS agreement or paid the 1st month’s non-refundable tuition by March 16, 2012. You will receive a written notification from the Business Office once your payment plan has been confirmed.
If you have any questions about this new payment requirement, please contact Mrs. Adrea Fitzgerald in the Business Office at afitzgerald@ or 703-491-4447, ext 215.
Financial Policies
• As part of the registration process, all Aquinas parents will sign the St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Tuition Contract. In signing this contract, parents make a conscious commitment to educate their children at St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School and help to ensure their enrollment for the upcoming school year. The contract also helps the administration with budget planning, class lists, and placing new students from the large waiting pool.
• The first FACTS payment (or equivalent if paying upfront) for the upcoming school year, due in June, is nonrefundable.
• For families who withdraw before the end of the current school year, the tuition will be pro-rated through the month of withdrawal to calculate the final payment or refund due. Student fees will not be refunded in any part.
• If the tuition payment is delinquent and an acceptable alternative arrangement has not been approved by the principal, the following will occur:
the student’s continued enrollment at St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School will be jeopardized;
records for students leaving St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School will not be forwarded;
middle school students will not be permitted to take exams in June;
a student will not be permitted to graduate if there is an outstanding tuition balance.
• The tuition payments must be current by January 20 in order for a family to register for the following school year. By registering for the following year, a family commits to the payment of the first month’s tuition and fees, which are non-refundable.
• For families who enroll after September, the tuition payments are prorated, but the entire student Fees will be paid.
There will be a $10.00 charge for any checks returned by the bank. The amount of the returned check and the charge must be paid with a money order or cashier’s check. Any payment made after May 25 must be paid by money order or cashier's check.
CO-CURRICULAR AND EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Participation
Participation in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities is a privilege, not a right. Students who successfully meet the school’s academic requirements and adhere to the code of conduct will be given the privilege of participating in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities. Girls are not allowed to participate in boys’ football and/or wrestling activities.
Students participating in school-sponsored team athletic activities must have proof of an annual physical. Submission of a pre-sport participation physical examination form and consent form for elementary and middle school based athletic program participation is required, excluding parish CYO.
When a student is requesting a waiver from participating in Physical Education classes and/or recess, parents are required to submit a written statement from their child’s physician that states any activity restrictions with regard to participation in Physical Education classes and/or recess. The statement is expected to include a specific time frame for the activity restrictions.
Transportation of Athletes
Students participating in a school-sponsored sport who wish to drive to and from practice and games in a privately owned vehicle must have a written permission from their parents/guardians. This approval does not permit a student to transport other passengers, under any circumstances, unless that passenger is a member of the car pool as permitted by the parents and administration.
Although CYO athletic teams are separate and distinct from parish/school activities, the pastor/principal retains the right to possible intervention by the school in the event a significant incident would bring the reputation of the parish and/or school into question within the community.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS REGIONAL SCHOOL ATHLETIC PROGRAM
The Athletic Program is an extracurricular program sponsored by St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School through the work of volunteer parents and teachers. The program is self-supporting. It is an athletic program open to St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School students who meet the eligibility criteria set by the teachers and school administration.
The program exists for the students of St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School in order to foster positive school spirit, good sportsmanship, character formation, positive experience in team participation and, most importantly, an enjoyable time for the students. The program emphasizes skill development and honest hard work. Although winning is enjoyable, it is not the primary focus of the program. The school administration, Athletic Director (AD), and volunteer coaches emphasize this. However, in order to effectively manage large teams, students may be placed according to skill level on a team. Every student is guaranteed some playing time.**
Aquinas parent volunteers support the program by coaching, volunteering time at the games practices, and concession stands. Volunteers are a very important part of the program. It is necessary for parents to give of their time as well as their presence at different functions. If volunteers do not come forward, St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School will not be able to furnish a sports program for the students.
Aquinas sports functions are self-supporting. Parents will be charged per sport according to what it costs to participate in, outfit, and run the sporting event. A family’s financial obligations to the school must be current in order to participate in the Aquinas Sports program.
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School participates in the following sports* throughout the school, year:
Football (Boys) Grades 6-8 Fall
Cheerleading (Girls) Grades 6-8 Fall, Winter
Soccer (Boys) Grades 6-8 Fall
Volleyball (Girls) Grades 6-8 Fall
Wrestling (Boys) Grades 6-8 Winter (Girls may not
participate in wrestling)
Basketball (Boys & Girls) Grades 6-8 Winter
Soccer (Girls) Grades 6-8 Spring
Softball (Girls) Grades 6-8 Spring
Baseball (Boys) Grades 6-8 Spring
Lacrosse (Boys & Girls) Grades 6-8 Spring
*When coaches are available.
**If there are not enough students to fill the team from the eligible grades, the AD reserves the right to choose students from lower grades.
STUDENT ATHLETE RULES AND OBLIGATIONS
The student athlete will be at all practices, games, and team meetings. Permission from the athletic director to be absent will be granted only for an approved reason. If a student misses practice, he/she cannot expect to play in the following game. A student who misses three or more practices may be asked to leave the team.
The student athlete needs to see that he/she has a good diet, adequate sleep, and proper warm-up before and after each practice and contest. Any student who uses, possesses, or buys alcohol, tobacco, or any illegal substance during the season will be referred for evaluation before he/she is considered eligible for continued participation in athletics. Any suspected or reported use of alcohol, tobacco, and other illegal substances will be investigated by the principal and AD who will determine the appropriate course of action. Depending upon the situation, the action may include a temporary or permanent suspension from athletics.
SPORTSMANSHIP
The Aquinas athlete is expected to perform to the best of his/her ability at all times while also extending courtesy to all coaches, officials, opponents, spectators/fans, and school employees during the contest and outside of the event. Clothing worn to athletic events must be free of references to drugs, alcohol, or sex. Athletes will not use offensive language or gestures at any time. If a student chooses to indulge in such behavior, they will be suspended for two games. If they repeat the behavior for a second time, he/she will be asked to leave the athletic program for the remainder of the season.
CARE FOR UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT
Please follow care directions on the labels of uniforms. Uniforms are to be returned on time, washed, and in good condition. If a student fails to return the athletic uniform, he/she will be charged the cost of the uniform ($50).
RESPECT FOR FACILITIES
Students must leave Aquinas or other schools’ facilities clean and free of damages. Students will not play in the foyers, or in other areas not designed for sports. Inappropriate sports’ equipment or other items should not be in the buildings; i.e., no cleats in the building, no food in the gym. All areas will be kept free of cups, food, items of clothing, etc. Athletes and unauthorized persons are not permitted in the Physical Education Office. Students who need to use a phone will speak to the AD or one of the coaches.
FOLLOWING GOOD SAFETY PRACTICES
Athletes must be supervised during athletic events. They are not to be running or rambling around facilities before, during, or after games.
Athletes must immediately report any injury, illness, or incapacitation to the coach or parents in charge.
Athletes will not use facilities unless coaches are present.
Students who have been absent from school during the day will not participate in an Aquinas function in the evening. This includes both games and practices. If a student is too sick to be at school, it is presumed they are too sick to be in a game or practice. The only exception to this would be if a student left school for a medical appointment, was in good physical condition, and not restricted from participating for any other reason.
Before an athlete may return to an athletic activity after any injury that requires a physician’s attention, he/she must present the signed approval of his/her physician and parents to the Athletic Director.
SCHOOL DETENTION
Athletic events do not come before school discipline. Students who need to serve a detention cannot use athletics as an excuse not to serve detention. If a student receives a detention and must miss a contest or practice due to a detention, it is up to the student athlete to inform the coach about his/her absence from the contest or practice. Students who attend an athletic event rather than serve a detention will be suspended from the next two contests as well as serve the detention.
AWARDS/REWARDS
Trophies, plaques, ribbons, any type of athletic award, or athletic wear will not be given to students without the expressed permission of the Athletic Director and school administration. Banquets, parties, and athletic gatherings will have the approval and permission of the school administration. Student awards and recognition are given after consultation with the Athletic Director, school principal, and coaches of the team.
PARENT OBLIGATIONS
Parents support the St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Athletic Program in the following ways:
• Completing and submitting to the Athletic Office all registration, emergency, carpool forms, and required fee;
Insuring that students have a proper physical examination prior to the beginning of the athletic season;
Supporting proper student behavior at all athletic events;
Giving positive and appropriate example to student athletes at all athletic functions. Parents will not be loud or disrespectful to referees or coaches; they will not heckle players from St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School or from opposing teams. They will not use profane language toward coaches, students, referees, or other parents. Parents should have control of their emotions and tempers at all times during practices, games, and athletic events. Parents should not be surprised if they are asked to leave a contest or practice at which they have displayed inappropriate behavior.
Siblings of athletes and other student riders in carpools may not be dismissed early to attend sports competitions that are away from Aquinas. Parents must make other arrangements for the transportation from school of non-athletes.
Setting a good example by obeying all rules. Any parent who violates these rules will be suspended from attending the next contest. A parent who consistently violates regulations will be suspended from attending any athletic contest for the remainder of the season.
STANDARDS OF ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION
All students participating in any Aquinas athletic function must meet the following criteria
during the academic year. Eligibility is based on academic standing, effort, and conduct.
Grades will be reviewed every four weeks.
In addition to the student's maintaining an overall C average with no F’s, the middle school teachers, in consultation with the AD, will evaluate the student's effort and behavior. Evaluation will occur every four weeks or as needed.
If a student is placed on athletic probation for academics, effort, or behavior, the following will take place:
• The AD will notify the student, parent, and the coach.
• The AD and the coach will counsel the student in the area of concern.
If no improvement occurs during the first week after notification, the student's playing time will be limited for the following week.
Thereafter, any lack of progress will result in the student being suspended from participating in games. If this has not been resolved by the time that report cards are issued, there will be a minimum 2 week suspension before reevaluation.
Middle school teachers and the AD will meet weekly to assess student progress until the next formal report (interim or report card) is issued.
While the administration, the AD, and the coaches understand the importance of athletics in developing the total child, it is the primary goal to ensure that each student reaches full academic potential. With this in mind, parents should assist in monitoring student progress on a regular basis. Serious discipline infractions may result in indefinite suspension from participation in sports. The final decision rests with the administration.
A student on academic probation will attend all practices, but may not be eligible to participate in any contests during the academic probation period. Parents are strongly encouraged to limit student attendance (even as spectators) at athletic activities during periods of suspension from sports. The extra time should be used for class preparation. If a student receives a detention or is serving any other disciplinary action and must miss a practice or contest, it is up to the student to inform the coach about the absence. Athletes who attend an athletic event rather than serve a detention or fulfill any other disciplinary action will be suspended from the next two contests and will fulfill the disciplinary obligation.
SPORTS PHYSICALS
All students participating in a school sponsored team athletic activity must have an Aquinas Sports physical and meet the following requirements:
• Submit a copy (not the original) of an Aquinas Athletic Participation / Parental Consent / Physical Examination Form completed and signed by a physician. (This form is specifically for sports and specifies the participation level that the physician deems appropriate. School entrance physical forms and Prince William County forms will not be accepted. )
• The completed physical must be dated on or after June 1st of the upcoming school year.
• A new sport physical is required at the beginning of each new school year.
For Students Not Meeting Requirements:
• Students may not practice, exercise, or physically participate in a school-sponsored sport until the required physical form is received in the office.
• Students may sit on the sidelines and receive verbal instruction, but at no time participate in the physical aspect of that given sport.
Once the physical form is completed and meets the requirements, full participation will be granted.
The sports physical is valid for any sport that a student may participate in during a given school year.
No form will be accepted that does not meet the above criteria.
HEALTH GUIDELINES
Parents are obligated to inform school officials of any injury that may occur outside of school hours. A decision will be made on an individual basis for consideration to participate in practice or games for the safety of the student athlete.
A student who has a fever of 100 degrees or greater, diarrhea, or is vomiting may not participate in any sport practice or game for 24 hours.
Head Injury: Symptoms of bleeding usually occur within the first 24-72 hours. The patient should be checked every two hours during the first 24 hours, every four hours during the second 24 hours, and every eight hours during the third day.
Signs and Symptoms
• Loss of alertness
• Unequal pupil size after injury
• Vomiting
• Ringing in ears
• Visual problems
• Bleeding from eyes, mouth, or nose
Students that have any head injury will not be allowed to participate in any practice or game for three days or until cleared by a physician.
If a suspected head injury occurs during a game or practice the coach has the responsibility / authority to pull the player from the game / practice.
Dehydration: Dehydration occurs when the body is depleted of water and electrolytes.
Signs and Symptoms
• Marked thirst
• Infrequent urination
• Dark yellow urine
• Dry mouth
• Sunken eyes
• Loss of normal elasticity of the skin
• Bloody vomit
• Severe abdominal pain
• Lethargy and marked irritability
If any of these symptoms are observed, the student will not be permitted to participate in practice or games until cleared by the school nurses, coaches, or physician.
Sprains/Strains/Fractures: Any student who has had an injury with swelling or marked pain to joints or bones will not be permitted to participate in practices or games until cleared by the school nurses, coaches, or physician.
Please note that no exceptions will be made to these policies, and that they are intended to ensure the safety of the student athletes.
GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY
The administration of St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School reserves the right to amend, adapt, or suspend any of the above policies if it is deemed necessary to do so in the best interest of the school community.
SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS
The school is not responsible for providing supervision for students who remain on school property after the conclusion of the instructional day, unless the student is participating in a school-sponsored activity (such as athletics or theater).
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES & BEHAVIOR
Code of Conduct
In all areas of learning, discipline must be considered in the development of the whole person. The Code of Conduct is based on the Gospel message of Jesus. Growth in self-discipline, a responsibility for Catholic moral values and a loving respect for the rights of all persons is encouraged and nourished by the Code of Conduct. To achieve these ends, parents, faculty and students work together to create a Catholic school environment. These basic components include:
• Teachers have a right to teach. No student will stop the teacher from teaching.
• Students have a right to learn. No student will stop another student from learning.
Based upon the Catholic moral values and loving respect for others taught by Jesus, students:
1. will be honest and committed to integrity.
2. will be respectful and courteous toward all teachers and adults.
3. will refrain from harassment of any kind.
4. will use appropriate language.
5. will speak respectfully to and about others.
6. will complete all assignments and participate fully in class.
7. will respect all school and personal property (Care of School Property).
8. will refrain from any deliberate disruption in the school.
9. will adhere to the school’s cell phone policy.
10. will comply with the Internet Acceptable Use Policy.
11. will demonstrate good sportsmanship when engaged in all school-sponsored co- and extra-curricular activities.
12. will be present for all required activities unless officially excused by the administration.
13. will adhere to the dress code (Dress Code).
14. will not give or receive unauthorized assistance on tests, quizzes or assignments.
15. will not leave school grounds during the school day for any reason without permission from the principal/administration.
16. will not bring to school nor possess at school any real or toy knives, guns (or any facsimile thereof), sharp objects that may be used as a weapon, matches, lighters, sparklers, laser devices or any facsimile thereof. It is understood if this term is violated, suspension or expulsion may result (Substance Abuse/Weapons and Inappropriate Materials).
17. will maintain and support others who maintain a safe and drug-free environment at or near school and at all school sponsored functions/activities with the understanding that possession or distribution of alcohol, drugs, tobacco or any other substance that may be harmful or dangerous and forbidden to include drug paraphernalia will result in suspension or expulsion from school (see also Substance Abuse/Weapons).
18. will not engage in any physical or verbal contact with another student which could be interpreted to be an inappropriate display of affection. Such conduct is prohibited on school grounds or at school-sponsored activities.
19. will, at all times, whether at school or in the community, conduct themselves in a manner which reflects the Catholic values and principles of the school.
The school observes this Code of Conduct because it is built on fundamental Catholic social teachings. The role of the principal/administration, staff and faculty is to work with the students and parents to assist the students in developing a strong Christian attitude toward life.
Substance Abuse/Weapons
The school makes every effort to make students aware of the dangers and consequences of the unlawful use of substances.
1. It is unlawful for any person to manufacture, sell, or distribute or possess with intent to sell, give or distribute any controlled substance, imitation controlled substance or marijuana while upon the property of the school; on any school bus; upon any public property or any property open to the public use within 1000 feet of the school (or any school bus stop when students are waiting to be picked up and transported to or are being dropped off from school or a school-sponsored activity.) If a student knows or suspects that any of the foregoing activities are occurring, he/she must immediately report the matter to the school administration/faculty so the appropriate law enforcement agency may be contacted.
2. If a student is suspected or is discovered to have (a) violated the foregoing policy with respect to any controlled substance, imitation controlled substance or marijuana or (b) used, possessed or distributed alcohol or tobacco while upon the property of the school; on any school bus; upon public property or any property open to the public use within 1000 feet of the school (or any school bus stop when students are waiting to be picked up and transported to or are being dropped off from school or a school-sponsored activity), the student will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion. In the event school officials believe that a student is under the influence of an illegal substance, the parents will be notified. School officials reserve the right to require that the student be taken for drug testing within 24 hours and that the results of the testing be shared with the appropriate school officials. If, however, a violation of the law has occurred, the proper law enforcement agency will be contacted (see also Policy 615).
3. A student shall not possess or use drug paraphernalia, including, but not limited to, water
pipes, cigarette paper rolling machines and miniature scales on the property of the school, on any school bus and/or any school-sponsored activity, whether discovered in an authorized search of his or her private property (Policy 615, paragraph 1) or on school property (e.g., lockers–Policy 615, paragraph 2). Any student who violates this provision will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.
4. A student shall not possess, use or threaten to use on the property of the school, on any school bus; and/or at any school sponsored activity, any weapons (including but not limited to any pistols, revolvers, rifles or other firearms, stun weapons, tasers, knives, flailing instruments (which may sometimes be known as nunchucks or fighting chains), sling shot, metal knuckles, any type of pointed metal throwing disk or dart, mace, pepper spray or other similar propellant or any type of explosive, incendiary or poison gas, bomb, grenade or rocket) or any facsimiles thereof, or any object that can be used with the intent of threatening or harming an individual, except when expressly authorized by a member of the school administration/faculty for authorized school purposes (such as knives for use only in food preparation activities in family life/home economics class; chemicals solely for use in instructional lessons as part of the school's academic curriculum; etc.). Any student who violates this provision will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. If there is reason to believe a violation of law has occurred, parents as well as the proper law enforcement agency will be immediately contacted.
Discipline
Because it is impossible to foresee all problems which arise, this handbook empowers the faculty and administration to take disciplinary action for any behavior (within or outside of the school community) which violates the spirit, philosophy and code of conduct of the school, even though not specified.
In justice to the other students, circumstances may dictate that a student be removed temporarily or permanently from the particular school setting.
Use of Disciplinary Action
In cases where a student is continually disruptive of others or in the case of a single serious disciplinary infraction, the teacher will apprise the principal/administration of the situation. They will assist in the development of a course of action to be taken to correct the situation.
Students who lack self-discipline or who violate the rights of others can expect disciplinary action. Each offense will be dealt with on an individual basis according to the age of the student, the nature of the infraction and the severity of the case. Repeated infractions can result in more serious consequences, up to and including suspension and/or expulsion, but there is no requirement for progressive discipline.
Disciplinary Measures
The following are some approved disciplinary measures:
1. Counseling and/or conference with the student and family
2. Assignment of special tasks
3. Denial of privileges
4. Detention
5. Probation
6. Suspension
7. Dismissal
8. Expulsion
Specific Disciplinary Policies
Basic St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Regulations
In addition to the code of conduct as stated above, all Aquinas students will observe the following school regulations:
• Running, loud talking, fighting, or roughhousing are not permitted.
• Students may not leave the school property: a classroom, the lunchroom, Extended Day, or any other part of the school building without a teacher’s permission.
• Students may not cut classes.
• Students are not allowed in the faculty room without permission.
• All students will refrain from bullying and all harassment of any kind.
• Students will not use inappropriate language when speaking to adults or other students.
• The office phone may be used for emergencies only with the permission from the office personnel and/or a teacher.
• Food may only be consumed at designated times.
• Food should not be left in school overnight.
• Chewing of gum is not permitted at any time.
• No writing on body or uniforms.
• If a student does not cooperate with morning hall procedures, "time-out" or other disciplinary measures may be enforced. Student may not be permitted to use the hall before the beginning of school in the mornings.
• Students are not allowed to use cellphones, i-pods or other electronic devices during school hours. If students carry these devices to contact parents or rides after school, they must be turned off in their backpacks until after 3:20PM.
Student Behavior/Academic Contracts
When a student does not meet the academic or behavioral expectations of the school, the student may be placed on a contract. This is a pro-active measure to help the student achieve to his/her highest potential. The terms of the contract are based on the individual needs of the student. The contract is signed by the principal, parent, teacher, and student. The student’s compliance with the terms of the contract is assessed regularly. Failure to satisfy the terms of the contract will result in the student being unable to remain at St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School.
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Honor Code
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School students will contribute to the Christ-like spirit that is at the heart of the school community. Therefore, Aquinas students will exhibit honorable conduct at all times promoting the dignity of all human persons.
The following honor code applies to all Aquinas students. Cheating, plagiarism, lying, stealing, forgery of signatures on test/documents, failure to respect school property or persons, including bullying and harassment of any kind are serious breaches of the honor code. Cheating is giving or receiving help on a test or assignment, including the following:
• communicating in any way with another student during a test;
• sharing information about a test with another student who has yet to take the test;
• having in one’s possession materials or information not approved in advance by the teacher which would indicate intent to give or receive help;
• using a computer or any form of technology to falsify information or to gain access to information to which the student has no right;
• copying homework.
Violations for cheating or forgery will result in the following consequences:
• First offense: The student will receive a zero on the test or work, the student will serve a detention, the parents will be notified, and the student will meet with the principal or designee. The parent must sign the forged test or document.*
• Second offense: The student will receive a zero on the test or work, the student will serve an in-school suspension, and there will be a conference with the student, principal or designee and a parent. Curtailment of extra curricular activity if a document is involved.
• Third offense: Student subject to expulsion.
*Examples of a “document” are permission slips needed by the sponsor of an extracurricular activity, test/quiz papers or detention notices sent home for a signature, etc.
All middle school students will write and sign the following honor code on all tests and quizzes.
“As a child of God, I promise that I have not given nor received help with this test or quiz”.
School-Wide Disciplinary Framework
Although the end and aim of discipline is the change of unwanted or unaccepted behavior and the development of good habits and virtue, our actions still have consequences. As a result, faculty and administration have the right and ability to dispense consequences that are appropriate for a given behavior. The following is a general guideline for consequences that may be used for all students in grade K-8:
• Regular classroom management system
• Silent lunch
• Administrative referral
• Parent-teacher conference and/or phone calls
• Lost privileges and activities
• After-school detention
• Behavior contracts
• Suspension
• Expulsion
• Other consequences determined by the administration
MIDDLE SCHOOL DISCIPLINARY POLICIES
The St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School discipline policy for the middle school is guided by a principle of "3Rs"; that is, a student will demonstrate remorse, responsibility, and repair in all aspects of behavior.
HOMEWORK POLICY
All students will write all homework assignments in their assignment books daily. These books are provided by the school. It is necessary for each student to have an assignment book with them for each class. Daily assignments not submitted on due date receive a 0 grade. If assignment is turned in one date late, grade is reduced by 50%. After one day late, student receives a 0 for grade. At the teacher’s discretion, students may still be required to submit assignments. The first 0 homework grade for each quarter is dropped at the end of the quarter.
BEHAVIOR POLICY
The St.Thomas Aquinas Regional School behavior policy will include warnings, demerits and detentions. When a student misbehaves he/she will receive a warning. At the second warning, the teacher will issue the student a demerit. The demerit slip requires a parent signature and must be returned the day after being issued. The student will serve a silent lunch detention the day after the demerit was issued. Three demerits will result in an after school detention. Detention is held on Tuesdays after school from 3:00 to 4:00PM. The student will be notified when he/she will serve a detention. In addition, a detention notice will be sent home. This notice must be signed by a parent and returned to the teacher the following day. If a student does not return a signed detention notice, the student's parent will be called. Any student who is late or absent from detention will serve two successive detentions.
If a student serves three detentions during the school year, a parent/teacher conference will be required. If a student serves four detentions during the school year, he/she will serve an in-school suspension. This student may also forfeit any field trips, class trips, class parties, or any other special class activities. If a student serves five detentions during the school year, their continued enrollment at St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School may be in jeopardy.
The administration reserves the right to dispense disciplinary consequences in given circumstances as deemed appropriate.
Suspension
Suspension may be imposed as determined by the principal/administration. Once the principal/administration suspends a student, parents may be required to sign a behavioral contract in which they signify their understanding of the problem and agree to work with the school in correcting the situation.
The failure of the parents to execute the above referenced agreement shall preclude the student from returning to the regular instructional program. This policy applies to in-house and out-of-school suspensions.
Dismissal
Conduct which is disruptive to the learning atmosphere and/or contrary to the school’s Code of Conduct is justification for a principal/administration to dismiss a student at the close of the school year.
Students who are dismissed may apply for readmission to any Diocesan school after one full year.
Expulsion
Expulsion may be resorted to when one or all of the following are present:
1. a serious infraction of school rules occurs;
2. the student has demonstrated continuing disregard of school rules for which other means of discipline have proven ineffectual;
3. the student's continued presence in the school is considered by school officials to be a serious hindrance to the safety or welfare of the school community;
4. a parent repeatedly or seriously violates proper school protocol, displays inappropriate or disruptive conduct toward students or displays disrespectful, disruptive or harassing behavior toward teachers or toward school, parish or diocesan staff.
If the principal/administration believes it necessary to expel a student, the principal/administration will notify the student and the student's parents about the student's action and provide them with an opportunity to respond in accordance with the school’s disciplinary hearing process before making any final decision on the matter.
A parent whose child is expelled may appeal this decision in writing to the Superintendent of Schools within 5 working days from the time of written notification.
During the pendency of any appeal, the expelled student shall be removed from the school community in compliance with the expulsion notice unless otherwise directed in the discretion of the principal/administration.
Students who have been expelled from any Diocesan school may not apply for admission to that school or another Diocesan school for a minimum of one (1) year from the date of expulsion.
Student Regulations and Procedures
Privacy of individual students must be balanced against the need to protect the health, welfare and safety of other members of the school community.
Students and Student Property
Searches
The principal/administration or his/her designee has the right to protect the health, welfare and safety of school patrons against drugs, weapons, unauthorized publications and other contraband materials. Search of a student's person and/or personal property on school property (e.g. automobiles, etc.) or at school activities may be conducted by the school principal/administration or other designated officials. It is only necessary that a search be reasonable and related to the school rights in these regards. The failure of a student to voluntarily submit to a search shall be presumptive evidence of the existence of contraband and grounds for appropriate disciplinary action.
Interrogation of Students
Unless provided with a court-issued warrant, the pastor (or principal if Diocesan high school) or the Office of Catholic Schools must first be consulted before law enforcement authorities are allowed to speak to any student for interrogation purposes of alleged illegal activities. This policy does not apply to Child Protective Services (CPS) officers, who are by law entitled to interview children.
The questioning by police officers of students in school or on school grounds about alleged illegal activities shall meet the following conditions:
• The principal, the assistant principal, or the principal’s designee shall be alerted.
• The police officers shall report to the principal’s office.
• Permission from the student’s parent/guardian, either by phone or in person, prior to questioning must be acquired.
• The principal or a school representative shall be present.
• The questioning shall be conducted in a private room where participants cannot be seen or heard by students and/or other school personnel.
The police officers, under unusual circumstances, may take legal actions that they deem necessary.
Students and Student Property
Students are solely responsible for their own personal property. The school accepts no responsibility for items left unattended in the common areas of the school. It is the responsibility of the student to turn in wallets, watches and other valuables to the physical education teacher/coach when participating in athletic events away from school. Items of personal property or clothing not directly related to academic or athletic events sponsored by the school should not be brought to school.
School Lockers and Desks
Lockers and desks are school property and are subject to searches by school authorities to protect the safety of all. A student to whom a locker or desk has been assigned has vís-a-vís other students exclusive use of the locker or desk but has no proprietary rights versus the school.
Care of School Property
Students are to care for school property in a respectful manner. Students who deface or damage school property or the property of others will make financial restitution. If library books are not returned, students will be assessed an amount equal to the value of the book or its replacement, whichever is greater, as determined by the principal/administration.
Dress Code
The dress code provides a standard for our students, which fosters an environment conducive to learning and respectful behavior.
Final decisions regarding the school uniform rest with the principal/administration.
Uniform Requirements & Other Pertinent Information
UNIFORM CODE – 2012-2013
• Uniform items that must be purchased by Flynn & O’Hara include the following: boy’s pants, girl’s slacks, jumpers, skirts, skorts, sweaters’ ties, and polo shirts.
• Pre-K and Kindergarten students will wear the full uniform as described below.
• Boys in grades 5-8 will wear Aquinas blue plaid ties. Ties are optional for girls in grades 7 & 8.
• Leather dress shoes in a solid color (black, dark brown, or dark blue), either loafer style, buckle, or Oxford (lace-up). Navy & white or black & white saddle shoes are permissible for girls. All shoe styles must have a distinguishable heel of no more than one inch in height. Boots, moccasins, and ballerina shoes, flip-flops or deck shoes are not permissible styles.
• Shoes must be kept in good condition: leather shoes should be cleaned or polished regularly, and lace-up shoes should have laces replaced as soon as they become frayed or torn. Lace-up shoes must be kept tied at all times, and all shoe styles must be worn properly (i.e., fully tied or closed; foot fully inserted into the shoe.) Students are encouraged to change into sneakers for PE and recess.
• Uniform apparel should be in good condition. No ripped or ill -fitting clothing.
GRADES 1-4
GIRLS
a. Jumper: drop waist style, blue Aquinas plaid, length of skirt is to the knee
b. White blouse with Peter Pan collar with long or short sleeves
c. Navy cardigan sweater with Aquinas crest
d. Navy knee socks, navy opaque tights, or plain white ankle socks with cuffs two inches above the edge of the shoe; no sports socks may be worn.
e. Navy slacks from Flynn & O’Hara may be worn during the months of December, January, and February
BOYS
a. Navy blue trousers from Flynn & O’Hara
b. White polo shirt with Aquinas crest, long or short sleeves
c. Navy v-neck sweater or vest with Aquinas crest (optional)
d. Navy blue socks only.
e. Solid black, navy, or dark brown belt
GRADES 5-6
GIRLS
a. Skirt: Blue Aquinas plaid, kick pleat style, length of skirt is to the knee.
b. Navy knee socks, navy opaque tights, or plain white ankle socks with cuffs two inches above the edge of the shoe; no sports socks may be worn
c. Navy slacks from Flynn & O’Hara may be worn during the months of December, January, and February
d. White Oxford shirt with button-down collar, long or short sleeves
e. Navy v-neck sweater or vest with Aquinas crest.
BOYS
a. Navy blue trousers from Flynn & O’Hara
b. White Oxford shirt with button-down collar, long or short sleeves
c. Navy v-neck sweater or vest with Aquinas crest
d. Aquinas blue plaid tie
e. Navy blue socks only
f. Solid black, navy, or dark brown belt
GRADES 7-8
GIRLS
a. Skirt: solid navy, kilt style , length of skirt is to the knee
b. White oxford blouse with button-down collar with long or short sleeves
c. Navy v-neck sweater or vest with white trim and Aquinas crest*
d. Optional Aquinas blue plaid tie
e. Navy knee socks, navy opaque tights, or plain white ankle socks with cuffs two inches above the edge of the shoe; no sports socks may be worn
f. Navy slacks from Flynn & O’Hara may be worn during the months of December, January, and February
*Sweater or vest is part of the full uniform for boys and girls in grades 7-8.
Optional Summer Uniform Grades 1 – 8
August to October 31st and from April 8th to the end of the school year
• Navy shorts and white golf shirt with Aquinas crest worn with white ankle socks, regular uniform shoes or all white athletic shoes may be worn. No colored outlining or logos are allowed on athletic shoes. Male students in grades 1-8 must wear a black, navy or dark brown belt.
• Girls in grades K-8 may wear navy skort or shorts purchased from Flynn & O’Hara.
• Students may wear the white polo shirt with Aquinas crest with the uniform skirt or trouser. Ties are not required for boys as part of the summer uniform.
GENERAL DRESS CODE FOR GRADES 1-8
A. All students will wear clean, well-maintained uniforms, including shoes.
B. A navy blue sweater with the Aquinas logo is the only sweater that is to be worn.
C. Tennis shoes may be brought to school and worn at recess and PE only. They are not considered to be part of the uniform, and, therefore, should not be worn to or from school.
D. ACCESSORIES:
(GIRLS) A single pair of small, post earrings to be worn in the earlobe (no hoops or dangling earrings), one simple ring, a watch, and a religious medal, cross, or crucifix on a chain may be worn.
Make-up, colored nail polish, or artificial nails or tips may not be worn.
Small hair ribbons or clips may be worn.
(BOYS) A watch, one simple ring, and a religious medal, cross, or crucifix on a chain may be worn; no earring.
E. Plain, white T-shirts (without any design) may be worn under shirts or blouses. No colored clothing may be worn under shirts or blouses.
F. Hair may not be dyed, bleached, tinted, tipped, highlighted; i.e., deliberate altering of a student’s natural hair color is not permitted.
G. No unusual hair cuts
H. Hair must not cover the eyes.
I. No pajama bottoms may be worn. On very cold days, girls may wear plain navy blue sweatpants under the uniform skirt or jumper during PE or recess only.
J. All shirts and blouses must be tucked into the waist so that the belt or the waistline of the skirt is visible.
K. No body piercing, tattoos or colored contact lenses.
HAIRCUT POLICY for
BOYS in GRADES 1-8
(Developed by St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Student Council)
Boys' hairstyles are expected to be simple, clean cut, evenly trimmed, should not cover any part of the ears, eyebrows, or touch the shirt collar.
• No unusual haircuts are permitted.
• Hair must be cut within five days after a teacher or administrator requests a student to do so.
• Deliberate altering of a student’s natural hair color is not permitted.
• No facial hair is permitted.
GUIDELINES FOR WEARING TIES:
(Developed by St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Student Council)
• Ties are worn under the shirt collar with the collar button fastened.
• The knot of the tie must be worn at the neck.
• During recess or PE, ties may be loosened or removed.
• All middle school boys must know how to tie their ties.
OUT OF UNIFORM DAYS
Out of uniform days may be casual or dress up days. The following guidelines are to be followed:
Dress up days (Picture Day)
• Skirts will not be worn shorter than the uniform length (must cover the knee).
6. All pants will be worn at the waist.
7. Skorts (skirt/shorts combination) are not permitted.
8. No tennis shoes, flip-flops, or ballerina type shoes
9. No T-shirts
10. No jeans
11. No shorts
12. No make-up will be worn.
13. All clothing will be worn modestly. No bare midriffs, low-cut tops, or excessively tight clothing will be permitted.
14. Dresses with spaghetti straps may be worn if a jacket or sweater is worn over them or dress straps must be at least 4’’ wide.
15. Colored bracelets may not be worn.
Casual Dress Day
On days when students are permitted to dress casually, tennis shoes may be worn. All clothing must be worn modestly. All casual pants must be worn at the waist. No bare midriffs, low-cut tops, or excessively tight or revealing jeans or tops are permitted. Shorts and skorts are permitted on casual dress day only during the time when the summer uniform is allowed to be worn (August to November and from April 8th to the end of the school year.) Shirts must be appropriate for school. (ex. No reference to bands, etc.)
If a student is improperly dressed on any out of uniform day, they will be given alternate clothing to wear or their parents will be called to take them home or bring a change of clothes.
On or before special holidays (only as designated by the principal) students may wear colored (related to the occasion) accessories as listed below:
16. Socks, ribbons, sweaters, nice sweatshirts, ties, colored nail polish, or jewelry (no colored bracelets).
17. NO OTHER ACCESSORIES MAY BE ADDED TO THE UNIFORM.
Aquinas Events Outside of the Regular School Day
Whenever students are representing St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School, they are expected to dress modestly and appropriately, whether at school or at a different venue.
Students who abuse any of the guidelines stated above will lose the privilege of coming out of uniform or wearing accessories on designated days.
Spirit Wear Dress Code
Spirit wear days are distinct from out of uniform days. Spirit wear days are special days designated by the principal when the students, faculty, and staff may come to school dressed in official Aquinas spirit wear. These days usually fall on the last Friday of the month or on a spirit night. All spirit wear days will be listed in the Connection. Spirit wear days are optional, and if a student does not choose to dress in spirit wear on these days, he/she should come to school in the regular school uniform.
The following are guidelines for spirit wear days.
• Students should wear an official Aquinas spirit wear shirt*.
• Any other official Aquinas spirit wear can be worn on these days with the exception of hats which may not be worn inside of the building.**
• Blue jeans should be worn to school on these days. However, jeans with rips, holes, or are too tight are not permitted. Colored jeans are not allowed.
• Students may wear shorts within the time frame that the summer uniform is allowed (August to November; April 8th to the end of the year).
• Colored hair is not allowed. No nail polish.
• No alterations should be made to the spirit wear resulting in tank tops, or shortened tops revealing bare midriffs.
• Excessive jewelry should not be worn, as it can be a distraction in the classroom. No make-up may be worn. No face painting.
• Shoes with heels higher than 1”, sandals, or flip-flops may not be worn.
• Shorts or skirts may not be shorter than 2” above the knee. An easy way to measure is to have the piece of clothing extend below the student’s fingertips when arms are hung by the side.
* Examples are: youth rally t-shirts, 30th Anniversary wear, Non-uniform Lands End items, athletic t-shirts (but not game jerseys), or Aquinas uniform polo shirt.
**When the weather turns cold, spirit wear should be visible. For example: it would be unacceptable to be wearing an Aquinas t-shirt which was covered completely by a Virginia Tech sweatshirt. The student would then appear to be wearing Virginia Tech spirit wear instead of Aquinas spirit wear.
The administration reserves the right to deem clothes and/or accessories as inappropriate as necessary. Students dressed inappropriately or not according to the dress code will be sent to the office to request a change of clothes from home.
THE SPIRIT OF THE UNIFORM POLICY IS TO BE MAINTAINED AND STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO ABIDE BY WHAT THE ADMINISTRATION DEEMS APPROPRIATE WHEN NOT EXPRESSLY IDENTIFIED IN THE ABOVE LISTS.
Inappropriate Materials
Students are not permitted to possess the following items on school property or at school functions:
• All portable sound systems, including cd players, MP3 players, IPODS and similar devices are not allowed at school. Likewise, cell phones, beepers, walkie-talkies, game-boys, palm pilots (PDAs), cameras (excluding yearbook members), and any other audio or visual equipment are not appropriate at school, at Extended Day, or at any other school activity. The school will not accept responsibility for damage or loss of any valuable articles brought to school. (Cameras may be brought on field trips with the permission of the teacher in charge).
• Permanent markers (Sharpie) pens are not permitted.
• Laser pointers are prohibited.
• Any other items deemed inappropriate by the administration.
Playground Regulations
PLAY AREA
1. Play within the area that is coned off.
2. Do not play near the St. Vincent building.
3. Do not play on the fence or grass in front of the church and St. Vincent.
4. Do not play on the side ramp/wall of the church.
5. Do not leave the area without permission of a playground supervisor.
BEHAVIOR
1. No fighting or arguing.
2. No food or drink.
3. Do not chase a ball out of the coned area without notifying a playground supervisor.
4. Be respectful to all the playground staff.
5. No physical contact whatsoever; i.e., hitting, inappropriate display of affection, pushing, etc.
SAFETY RULES
1. When the whistle blows, all students will stop what they are doing immediately.
2. When the second whistle blows, all grades should line up in assigned places.
3. Students will report any problem or injury to an adult supervisor on the playground.
4. All students will STOP if a car enters the area. There will be no movement until the vehicle is out of the play area.
5. Students will always ask permission to return to the building for any reason.
6. Students will wear appropriate clothing depending on the weather.
7. Students will immediately report strangers or trespassers on the school property to a playground supervisor.
8. Students may not go to the chapel.
9. All students will go to recess, unless they are directed by their teacher or a lunchroom monitor not to do so.
Primary Playground Facilities Safety Policy
St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School faculty and staff are dedicated to providing a safe playground facility and equipment. The playground will be utilized according to school policy and regular expectations for discipline and behavior.
• The playground is for the use of Aquinas students from grades Pre-K to third. Children must be supervised by authorized school personnel at all times.
• Hours of operation: Regular school hours only.
The school playground committee will make regular inspections of the grounds and play equipment.
Lunchroom Regulations
Given the risk of potential harm, students’ access and use of microwave ovens are prohibited. Student meals provided by parents must not be heated in microwave ovens by school personnel and/or school volunteers.
If students are buying hot lunch, they should place belongings on their seats, go to the hot lunch line, pick up their lunch, and/or snacks, and return to their seats and eat lunch.
Regulations:
1. Students will be polite and respectful to each other and to the lunchroom monitors at all times.
2. "Grace Before Meals" is said before each lunch period in the classrooms.
3. Tables are assigned by grade level. Students may not visit at different tables, or eat with parent volunteers in snack or hot lunch areas.
4. Students will not throw food.
5. Students will not save seats for other students.
6. A signal will be given to encourage students to finish their lunch. This will be given 2 minutes before prayers at the end of lunch.
7. Ice cream will not be sold in the last 5 minutes of lunch.
8. When a lunchroom monitor blows the whistle to signal the end of lunch, all students will stop talking immediately.
9. All students will stand and fold their hands for prayer. Students will recite "Grace After Meals". Students will not hold or eat food during prayers.
10. After prayers, all students will clean up his/her area.
11. Students will remain in their seats unless they are throwing away trash.
12. When told to do so by a lunchroom monitor, students will throw away trash and line up for recess.
13. Tables will be dismissed for recess by table number according to table behavior and cleanliness of eating areas.
If a student does not have lunch, they should see a lunchroom monitor.
Students or parents should alert lunchroom supervisors and school nurses concerning any food allergies or other medical concerns. If a student must leave lunch early, he/she must submit a signed teacher’s note to one of the lunchroom supervisors.
Names of those on clean-up duty will be posted weekly. Table cleaners for the day will stand and go to the end of the table to lead prayer. Table cleaners will clean tables before attending to other special activities.
HEALTH, SAFETY & Welfare
Student Health, Safety & Welfare
Parents and guardians have the primary responsibility for the health and well-being of their children. School health services supplement, rather than substitute, for parental care and concern for the health of the students.
Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and/or Child Abuse
The Catholic Diocese of Arlington Policy on the Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and/or Child Abuse generally applies to all clergy, all employees and all volunteers.
It is the policy of the Diocese that sexual misconduct and/or child abuse while performing any work or activities under the auspices of the Diocese is contrary to Christian principles and outside the scope of any authority, duties and/or employment of any clergy, employee or volunteer.
Any clergy, employee or volunteer with the Diocese who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that an incident of child abuse or illegal sexual misconduct has been perpetrated by any individual, including clergy, employee or volunteer with the Diocese,
• must comply with applicable reporting and other requirements of state and local law;
• must report the incident to the Moderator of the Curia of the Diocese of Arlington.
Virginia law imposes upon school personnel the legal responsibility of reporting to the local child protective services agency any incident of suspected child abuse or neglect.
School personnel who suspect the abuse or neglect of a student must report the matter directly to Child Protective Services and to the school principal who in turn will call the Moderator of the Curia. At that point, confidentiality must be respected.
According to the Code of Virginia, (Section 63.2 – 1518) Authority to Talk to a Child or Sibling, “Any person required to make a report or conduct an investigation or family assessment, pursuant to this chapter may talk to any child suspected of being abused or neglected or to any of his siblings without consent of and outside the presence of his parent, guardian, legal custodian, or other person standing in loco parentis or school personnel."
WELLNESS POLICY
The Diocese of Arlington Office of Catholic Schools Wellness Policy (2006) meets minimum federal standards and establishes goals for physical education, nutrition and healthy environments in schools. All schools must develop, and continue to evaluate, local school wellness policies. The local policies create a framework for increased student activity, staff wellness, safe and healthy environments and the elimination of foods of minimal nutritional value, during the school day. All schools have wellness committees to implement, sustain and evaluate the local wellness program.
Accidents and First Aid
The parents of an injured student will be notified of the accident/injury by the principal/administration or the principal/administration's designee as soon as reasonably possible, taking into consideration such factors as the apparent severity of the accident/injury and the priority of providing assistance to the student.
If an incident results in a medical condition or injury which can be reasonably known to the appropriate supervisory faculty/staff member and/or the principal, the school and/or its staff are authorized to render reasonable basic first aid if such direct medical assistance would, in the opinion of the school, serve to minimize the severity of the injured person's condition. In addition, staff may secure professional diagnosis and/or treatment if such action, in the opinion of the school, appears to be reasonably warranted. The school and school officials shall be expressly held harmless from any liability costs or expenses associated with the professional diagnosis and/or any treatment or first aid provided (including but not limited to the cost of transportation), such costs or expenses being the responsibility of the injured party or, if a student, the student's parents.
Illness
Each school will provide a health office or comfortable space, apart from the student population, where children who become ill or injured can be cared for following Virginia School Health Guidelines, 2nd edition.
Children with fevers, contagious or infectious diseases will be sent home promptly and excluded from school while in that condition, per Virginia Department of Health regulations. Once the student is confirmed to be free of communicable illness by a healthcare provider or is fever free/symptom free for 24 hours without taking anti-fever medications, the student may return to school, afterschool and extracurricular activities.
Medication Administration Overview
Detailed Diocesan medication policies and procedures can be accessed on the Office of Catholic Schools website, in the school clinic and in the appendix of this document.
All school clinic, administrators and staff are required to administer medication within the framework of the procedures outlined in Diocesan policy and summarized here.
All prescription and over the counter (OTC) medications may be administered during the school day under the following conditions:
1. When the need for administration of medicines during school hours has been confirmed by the school nurse/health assistant (or the school administration);
2. After the first dose of any medication has been given at home;
3. When the parent/guardian provides and transports the medication to and from school and the medication is given directly to the school nurse/health assistant or a senior member of the school administration;
4. When there is a health care provider’s written order signed by the parent/guardian requesting the school to administer medication or to permit the student to self-administer the medication;
5. When the medication is brought to the school in its original container stating the name of the student, the dosage and method of administration prescribed by a physician. It is the parent’s or guardian’s responsibility to notify the school of any changes to the original prescription. The new prescription must also be brought to the school in the original container as stated above;
6. When the appropriate medication authorization form (Appendix F-6) has been completed, signed and accompanies the medication;
7. For any medication, parents must document the number of tablets or dosages to be secured for administration by authorized school personnel. If tablets are to be divided, the parent or guardian is responsible for dividing the tablets in order to achieve their child’s proper dosage.
All OTC and prescription medications are to be kept locked in the clinic/school office and be administered by the school nurse, clinic aide, principal or trained designee. No student is to carry/possess medications, without appropriate medical authorization. No medication will be administered unless the school has received a signed copy of the Medication Authorization Form (Appendix F-6). OTC medications do not require a health care provider’s signature unless the medication is required for four (4) or more consecutive days.
It shall be the student’s responsibility to come to the clinic/school office at the appropriate time for medication unless a health care provider or parent indicates in writing that the student cannot do this.
Students are NOT permitted to self-medicate. The school does not assume responsibility for medications taken independently by the student. Exceptions may be made on a case by case basis for students who demonstrate the capability to carry and self-administer emergency lifesaving medications (e.g. inhaler, Epi-pen).
Within one week after expiration of the effective date on the order, or on the last day of school, the parent/guardian must personally collect any unused portion of the medication. Medications not claimed within that period will be destroyed.
Specialized Student Care Needs
The parent of any student on a continuing regimen for a non-episodic condition shall inform the school principal/administration and identify in writing the student's supervising health care provider. If necessary, and with parental written consent, there may be occasions when the school needs to communicate with the health care provider regarding possible effects on the pupil's healthcare management, special emergency procedures or behavior at school.
LIFE THREATENING ALLERGY
The Diocese of Arlington Office of Catholic Schools’ Life Threatening Allergy Policy (2009) aims to minimize the risk of student exposure to known allergens during the school day. All schools will provide an annual in-service for school faculty and staff to educate on the policy. Training will include minimizing the risk of exposure to life threatening allergens in the school setting as well as anaphylaxis recognition, medical management and incident reporting.
Schools will utilize the policy to develop allergen management communications for student handbooks, classrooms and parental publications. Schools will recruit and train teams responsible for managing an allergic crisis.
Parents and guardians of students with a life threatening allergy must inform principal and school health personnel of any allergies and provide schools with fully executed Diocesan documents, including but not limited to; allergy action plans (F-4A), medication administration forms (F-6), inhaler administration forms (F-3) and Epinephrine administration forms (F-4). Parents/ guardians are expected to supply schools with any emergency medications as prescribed and may additionally provide the student with “safe” foods for classroom celebrations involving food. Schools will utilize Diocesan documents to formulate an emergency care plan for the student and will share this care plan with those involved with the student including, but not limited to teacher(s), food service, bus driver, janitorial staff.
Infectious/Communicable Diseases
Parents must notify the school within 24 hours if their child or any member of the immediate household has developed a communicable disease. Parents must notify the school immediately if the disease is life threatening. Parents must pick up their sick or injured child in a timely manner when contacted. If the parent cannot be reached, emergency contacts will be called to pick up the child.
The protection and welfare of each individual student is of importance in the schools of the Diocese of Arlington. In an effort to enhance protection of students:
1. No daycare/preschool, elementary, middle or secondary school student may attend class without documentary proof of adequate immunization in accordance with Virginia Department of Health’s school entry requirements (or modified schedule as approved by licensed health care provider) on the Virginia School Entrance Health Form (MCH-213 ).
a. Parents or guardians who object to the administration of immunizing agents for their child on the grounds that this conflicts with their religious tenets or practices must produce a notarized Certificate of Religious Exemption CRE-1 form, which will be retained in the student health record.
b. Students who have traveled or resided in a foreign country for five months or more during the last three years are required to provide documentation of a recent tuberculosis skin test result prior to school entry.
2. Students with fevers and/or contagious or infectious diseases will be sent home promptly and will be excluded from school while in that condition, according to Virginia Department of Health regulations. Once the student is confirmed to be free of communicable illness by a health care provider or is fever free/symptom free for 24 hours without taking anti-fever medications, the student may return to school.
3. School health personnel will follow the Virginia Department of Health Communicable Disease Chart, found in the Virginia School Health Guidelines, 2nd edition, when referring suspected cases of communicable disease to the local health department for excluding or readmitting a student.
4. The Diocese of Arlington has comprehensive guidelines for school/parish based influenza vaccination clinics. The liability associated with the vaccination of children is great. The Diocese of Arlington does not promote school based vaccination clinics, for children during school hours and in the absence of the parent, with the exception of a state or federal emergency. Any school wishing to offer an onsite school influenza vaccination program must comply with all aspects of the Memorandum of Agreement (Appendix F-18). Vendors wishing to serve as vaccinators must be fully vetted by the Office of Risk Management prior to the consummation of any contract for services.
Lice
All students determined to have an active case of lice will be excluded from school until they receive treatment. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to provide appropriate and adequate treatment for the student and home environment as recommended by their health care professional. Readmission to school is determined by the school nurse/administration based upon re-inspection and the effectiveness of treatment. Follow up treatment is expected and verified by the school nurse/administration. Classroom contacts may be inspected.
When a case of head lice is reported, the parent will be called immediately to take the child home. The parents of the other students in the class will be informed and asked to check their own children for head lice. In addition, all students in that class will receive a copy of Health Notes concerning Head Lice from the Virginia State Department of Health listing recommendations and procedures for parents to follow.
Once a child becomes infected, he/she will not be readmitted to school until the following criteria are met:
• A parent must accompany the child to the clinic before returning to class.
• The child must be examined by the school nurse and must be nit-free. If any nits are found, the child will be required to go home.
• A letter must accompany the student stating that treatment with approved head lice shampoo was used.
A strict NIT FREE policy will be enforced.
Bloodborne Disease
The Christian community is called to respond to the sick in our midst with compassion and justice. The diocese recognizes its obligation to protect the rights of individual students infected with Hepatitis and HIV to provide a safe environment for students, staff members and the public. Students who are infected with bloodborne Hepatitis, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or HIV-related conditions must be provided the opportunity to receive a Catholic school education in a regular classroom unless the student's health interferes significantly with school performance.
Since it is known that bloodborne Hepatitis and HIV are not transmitted through casual contact, any student who is infected will continue education in a regular classroom assignment unless his or her health status requires otherwise. It is the intent of the Diocese of Arlington Office of Catholic Schools to follow the recommendations of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Virginia Department of Health which state that, most bloodborne Hepatitis and HIV-infected children be allowed to attend school in an unrestricted setting, and that decisions regarding school attendance be based on the medical condition of each child and the expected type of interaction with others in that setting.
Persons involved in the implementation and monitoring of this policy shall maintain confidentiality of records in compliance with federal and state law and diocesan policy. All diocesan schools shall also maintain a program of information and training for school staff members to ensure a consistent and accurate understanding regarding prevention of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. This includes training related to the proper application of universal/standard precautions.
Fire/Emergency Drills
Fire Drill Procedures
• Exit routes are posted in each room.
• Teachers will accompany students outside the building to assigned places.
• Individuals instructing special classes (music, art, science lab, computer, band, library, etc.) are responsible for supervising the class during a fire drill. Students in a special class or assisting in another classroom at the time of a fire drill will remain with that particular teacher for the duration of the drill. Classroom teachers will meet their students where they are assembled with the specials teacher.
• Students will exit and reenter the building in perfect order and in complete silence.
• All persons will exit the building.
• The last student out of the room closes the door.
• Teachers will bring their class roster for roll check.
• Teachers will report roll to appropriate staff as designated by the administration.
• An administrator will give an "all clear" signal allowing all to reenter the building.
In addition to fire drills, students participate in other drills for emergency situations – tornado, bomb, etc.
Shelter-in-Place
To prepare for the event of an exterior chemical or biological exposure to hazardous material, St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School has adopted an extensive Shelter-in-Place plan. This procedure utilizes the school building structure and its indoor atmosphere to temporarily separate people from a hazardous outdoor atmosphere. When the school has entered into a Shelter-in-Place situation, parents cannot enter the school building.
Should a situation arise that delays the release of students at the end of the day, parents will be notified in the following manner:
• The school receptionist will notify the parking lot parent contacts.
• The parent contacts will inform those in the parking lot of the delay by holding up red signs and walking through the parking lot. Parents are asked to please follow the direction they are given in a timely and respectful manner.
• Parents are asked to NOT CALL THE OFFICE. Phone lines must remain open to receive directions from county officials.
• Parking lot contacts will be in constant communication with the office.
• Once the emergency situation has been resolved and the okay is received from county officials, students will be released as usual.
Sexual Harassment--Students
Sexuality affects all aspects of the person, including in a general way the aptitude for forming bonds of communion with others. The Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Arlington endeavors to provide for its students an atmosphere free from sexual harassment.
1. No student is to sexually harass another member of the school community. Any student who engages in sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion.
2. Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advances, unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature or unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. "Unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature" includes, but is not limited to, "the deliberate, repeated making of unsolicited gestures or comments, or the deliberate, repeated display of offensive, sexually graphic materials which is not necessary for school purposes."
3. Any student who believes that he or she is being sexually harassed shall immediately report such information to the supervising teacher and to the school principal/administration. A student who is uncomfortable for any reason in reporting such alleged harassment to the teacher and/or school principal/administration, or is not satisfied in doing so, may report the matter directly to the Superintendent of Schools. Any information reported shall, to the extent possible, be treated as confidential. All claims of sexual harassment shall be thoroughly investigated in an appropriate manner under the supervision of the Superintendent of Schools and/or another designated Chancery official
4. No student will be subject to any retaliation or disciplinary action on the part of the school for reports of sexual harassment made in good faith.
5. In adherence to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, schools will offer the “Safe Environment Program” endorsed by the Office of Catholic Schools. This program will be presented annually to students in selected grades (Policy 616.5).
Parents should be afforded the opportunity to review the materials prior to presenting the program at any given grade level and reserve the right to remove their children from the classes.
Bullying
Bullying is prohibited and is defined as one or more actions of abusive treatment of another. Examples include but are not limited to:
a. Physical intimidation or assault
b. Extortion
c. Oral or written threats
d. Teasing
e. Putdowns
f. Name calling
g. Threatening looks
h. Gestures or acts of aggression (Overt and Covert)
i. Cruel rumors & false accusations
j. Social Isolation
k. Cyber-bullying
School personnel will not tolerate any bullying on Diocesan school grounds or at any school-sponsored activity (on or off school grounds). In addition, the Office of Catholic Schools expects students and parents who become aware of an act of bullying to report it to appropriate school personnel (e.g. principal, teacher, school counselor). The Office of Catholic Schools expects staff members who become aware of an incident of bullying to take appropriate steps to intervene unless intervention would be a threat to staff members’ safety. If a staff member believes that his/her intervention has not resolved the matter, or if the bullying persists, he/she shall report the bullying to the school principal for further investigation.
In cases of reported bullying, the principal or designee shall interview all students involved (i.e. the aggressor(s) and the victim(s)) and investigate, as appropriate. This investigation may include interviews with students, parents and school staff; review of school records; and identification of parent and family issues. Any student who retaliates against another for reporting bullying may be subject to appropriate consequences.
a. Consequences for students who bully others shall depend on the results of the investigation and may include:
• Counseling
• Parent conference
• Detention
• Suspension and/or Expulsion
c. Depending on the severity of the incident(s), the principal may also report incidents of bullying to law enforcement if appropriate.
Respect For Life
A fundamental tenet of our Catholic faith is that human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception. In the event of a student pregnancy or participation in an abortion, the school may condition continued enrollment in the school upon the student’s/family’s compliance with the foregoing and other corollary tenets of the Catholic Church.
STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
The Catholic school recognizes the beauty and potential inherent within each student. In an effort to foster continued growth, the school embraces the challenge to provide assistance and programs to serve students with special needs according to the resources available within/to the school. Parents are considered an integral part of the process.
In order to accommodate a student who has been evaluated for special learning needs, parents are obligated to share educational/psychological testing results and any resulting plan with the school. The refusal to provide such information is grounds for terminating enrollment in the school. A student may be admitted on a probationary basis with dates and criteria of evaluation clearly established in writing.
If a student has a documented disability, a copy of the Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Individualized Services Plan (ISP), 504 plan and/or Student Assistance Plan (SAP) should be maintained in the student’s confidential file. Students who have a documented disability but do not qualify for services through the local public school may be eligible for accommodations through a Student Assistance Plan written at the Catholic school.
When a student qualifies for special education services through the public school and will not receive services, an Individualized Catholic Education Plan can be written following the information in the Guidelines for Serving Students with Special Needs.
Failure of the parent to sign the Student Assistance Plan or Individualized Catholic Education Plan does not prevent the implementation of the plan.
Students with disabilities are expected to follow the school’s policies and honor code.
Two full-time resource teachers are available to students in the school. The students are identified through the presence of an existing Individual Educational Plan (IEP), existing Student Assistance Plan (SAP), or teacher determination. When students are initially placed in the program, parents are asked to sign a permission slip. This permission remains in effect while the student is at St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School. Once parents give consent, the classroom teacher and resource teacher confer regarding the needs of the student. A schedule is arranged with various times for resource ranging from once a day to once a week, or on a need by need basis. The student may receive individual or group help. Normally, resource help takes place outside the classroom, but the resource teacher may be available to help in the classroom also. Resource assistance may be limited due to professional availability. There is also a full time school counselor on staff at St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School.
If a child has a private educational evaluation, the report must be shared with the resource teacher and administration. The Aquinas resource teacher will then work together with the parents in guiding them to possibly seek additional support for their child through the county school system.
The parents must notify the resource teacher before requiring a child study meeting with a county school.
The resource teacher in conjunction with administration will determine if the private evaluated child should receive resource help through Aquinas.
EXTENDED DAY
Extended Day Program
The school offers an extended day program on days when the school is in session for students who are currently enrolled in the school’s academic program. See Section V. General School Policies regarding fees to utilize this program. Parents must sign their child(ren) in/out when they are being placed in/released from the program at the beginning and end of the school day, respectively. All provisions in this handbook (except Section II., Academics, but including the section on Technology), apply to the Extended Day Program.
Crisis Management/Emergency Preparedness Plan
A Crisis Management/Emergency Preparedness Plan has been developed and approved. All employees have been trained accordingly.
Over-the-Counter Skin Products
All non-prescription drugs and over-the-counter skin products shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Non-prescription drugs and over-the-counter skin products shall not be kept or used beyond the expiration date of the product.
For all over-the-counter skin products,
• written parent authorization noting any known adverse reactions shall be obtained;
• shall be in the original container labeled with the child’s name;
• does not need to be kept locked but shall be inaccessible to children under five years of age;
• any center-kept sunscreen shall be hypo-allergenic and have a minimum SPF of 15;
• children nine years of age and older may administer their own sunscreen if supervised.
When insect repellent is used, a record shall be kept that includes the child’s name, date of use, frequency of application and any adverse reaction. Manufacturer’s instructions for age, duration and dosage shall be followed.
licensing information
The Commonwealth of Virginia helps assure parents that child day programs that assume responsibility for the supervision, protection and well-being of a child for any part of a 24-hour day are safe. Title 63.1, Chapter 10 of the Code of Virginia gives the Department of Social Services authority to license these programs. While there are some legislative exemptions to licensure, licensed programs include child day centers, family day homes, child day center systems and family day systems. The state may also voluntarily register family day homes, which are not required to be licensed.
Standards for licensed child day centers address certain health precautions, adequate play space, a ratio of children per staff member, equipment, program and record keeping. Criminal record checks and specific qualifications for staff and most volunteers working directly with children are also required. Standards require the facility to meet applicable fire, health and building codes.
Compliance with standards is determined by announced and unannounced visits to the program by licensing staff within the Department of Social Services. In addition, parents or other individuals may register a complaint about a program, which will be investigated if it violates a standard.
Three types of licensing may be issued to programs. Conditional licenses may be issued to a new program to allow up to six months for the program to demonstrate compliance with the standards. A regular license is issued when the program substantially meets the standards for licensure. A provisional license, which cannot exceed six months, is issued when the program is temporarily unable to comply with the standards. Operating without a license when required constitutes a misdemeanor which, upon conviction, can be punishable by a fine of up to $100 or imprisonment of up to 12 months or both for each day’s violation.
If you would like additional information about the licensing of child day programs or would like to register a complaint, please contact the Regional Office of Social Services closest to you.
Fairfax Licensing Office
3701 Pender Drive, Suite 125
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 934-1505
Northern Virginia Regional Office
320 Hospital Drive, Suite #23
Warrenton, VA 22186
(540) 347-6345
Central Regional Offices
1604 Santa Rosa Road, Suite 130
Richmond, VA 23229-5008
(804) 662-9743
Eastern Regional Office
Pembroke Office Park
Pembroke Four Office Building, Suite 300
Virginia Beach, VA 23452-5496
(757) 491-3990
Verona Licensing Office
Post Office Box 350
Verona, Virginia 24482-0350
(540) 248-9345
Piedmont Regional Office
Commonwealth of Virginia Building
210 Church Street, S.W., Ste. 100
Roanoke, VA 24011-1779
(540) 857-7920
Abingdon Licensing Office
190 Patton Street
Abingdon, VA 24210
(540) 676-549
Insurance
The extended day program is covered by public liability insurance through the Diocese of Arlington and the Catholic Mutual Relief Society of America. Student insurance must be provided by the family through their own policy or purchased through an independent school insurance provider upon request.
Tax Information
Because the Internal Revenue Service requires identification of care givers in order to claim a credit for child and dependent care expenses, the program staff will complete and return to the parent any W-10 that is sent in, provided Part II is already completed by the parent.
Upon request, a statement of payments made for Extended Day during the calendar year will be provided including the school’s federal tax identification number.
Parental Involvement
In compliance with state regulations for state licensed programs, a custodial parent shall be admitted to any child day program. Such right of admission shall apply only while the child is in the child day program (63.2-1813 of Code of Virginia).
The Aquinas Pre-K program is “not” considered a child care program. The regular school parental policies apply to Pre-K parents as well.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS REGIONAL SCHOOL EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM
PURPOSE
The purpose of the St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Extended Day Program is to enhance the Christ-centered atmosphere of St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School and to support the parents of children enrolled in the school by providing the children with quality and consistent
care and supervision beyond normal school hours. Emphasis of the Program is consistent with the school and home environment and conducive to creative play, respectful interaction among the children, independent study, and rest. The Program is operated on a not-for-profit basis.
LICENSURE
The St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Extended Day Program is licensed by the state of Virginia.
ADMISSION POLICY
The program is open to the children in grades K-8 who are enrolled in St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School on an available space basis.
HOURS OF OPERATION
The Program operates from 6:00 AM to the beginning of the school day and again from dismissal time to 6:00 PM on each day that the school is open. On early dismissal days, the afternoon program begins when school dismisses. The program does not operate during school vacations or on school holidays.
EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM
FEE SCHEDULE
2012-2013
MORNING SESSIONS
Session A1
6:00-8:00 a.m.
$9.00 per day per child
Session A2
7:00-8:00 a.m.
$4.50 per day per child
EARLY RELEASE SESSIONS
Session ER1
12:00-3:00 p.m.
$13.50 per day per child
Session ER2
2:00-3:00 p.m.
$4.50 per day per child
AFTERNOON SESSIONS
Session B1
3:00-4:00 p.m
$4.50 per day per child
Session B2
3:00-5:00 p.m.
$9.00 per day per child
Session B3
3:00-6:00 p.m.
$13.50 per day per child
The above rates are based on $4.50 per hour.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS REGIONAL SCHOOL EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM IS AVAILABLE TO PRE-REGISTERED STUDENTS ONLY. FEE’S ASSOCIATED WITH THE EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM ARE PAID IN ADDITION TO THE TUITION AND STUDENT FEES.
DROP-IN SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE.
SUPERVISION:
The director, assistant director, and other staff members have at least the minimum educational background and/or related work experience required by the Virginia Department of Social Services.
REGISTRATION:
To enroll your child in St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Extended Day Program, please complete and return the registration form and fee.
No student may use the Program unless the student has registered for the Program and submitted appropriate emergency and health information to the office.
Enrollment in each session may be limited by available space and staff in order to maintain the staff-child ratio. When enrollment reaches capacity, priority will be given to children whose custodial parents work outside the home. Priority is then given according to the following criteria:
Priority will be given to full time users. (Monday through Friday – 5 days per week) Drop-in use is unavailable. Registration for early release days is not mandatory to be considered a full time user. However, if you register for these sessions, you will be charged for all early release days unless prior notification is received in writing as to which days you will not be using that month. Rates will not be adjusted for less than full time use. Invoices will be distributed at the beginning of each month. Payment must be made by the 10th of each month in order to hold your child's space.
Credit will not be given for unused days due to illness, family vacation, participation in sports, girl/boy scouts, leadership, clubs, choir, or other school activities.
There is a $20 fee per family that must be returned with the Extended Day registration form. Registration must be completed in full, including a minimum of two emergency contacts and a daycare history, for acceptance. Current Extended Day families must return their completed form and deposit by June 1 to ensure space for the 2012-2013 school year. New families will be notified of available space after July 30.
HEALTH RECORDS:
Each child’s health records and immunization must be on file in the nurse’s office prior to attendance at the Extended Day Program.
DISCIPLINE POLICY:
The student enrolled in the Extended Day Program is expected to follow the code of behavior just as he/she would during the regular school hours as stated in the St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School Parent/Student Handbook. All children are expected to respect the staff, each other, and the materials and environment provided. They must NEVER leave the building, school grounds, or assigned classroom without explicit permission of the Extended Day Program staff. In the event of an extreme on-going problem, the principal will be consulted.
If a child’s behavior infringes on the rights and safety of others, the Extended Day Program staff will consult with the director, who in consultation with the principal, will determine whether or not the child will remain in the Program.
In order to maintain a professional atmosphere, all adult staff members will be formally addressed, (i.e., Mr., Mrs., or Miss). Informal use of staff members' first names by students is inappropriate in the school setting.
TERMINATION POLICY:
A decision to terminate enrollment of a child will be made by the director only for good cause after consultation with the child’s parents or guardians and written approval by the Program’s Director and School Principal. Parents will be notified in writing in advance of any proposal by the staff to terminate the enrollment of any child. A two-week notice will be given.
When a parent wishes to terminate the enrollment of their child from the Program, they must give at least one week’s written notice to the director. Any payment of fees made for care beyond the termination date will be refunded to the parents when the director is given the one week’s written notice. If one week’s written notice is not given, no refund will be made.
MEDICATION POLICY:
Only an MAT Certified Extended Day staff member is authorized to administer prescription and nonprescription medication to a child only with written authorization from the parent. This authorization will be for a limited time period not to exceed 10 school days, unless otherwise prescribed by a physician, and will be retained at the center during the effective period. All medication must be in the original container, labeled with the child’s name, the name of the medication, the dosage amount and the method of administration. All medication will be kept in a locked area and returned to the parent as soon as it is no longer being administered. Forms authorizing the staff to administer medications are available in the office, from the school nurse or from staff members. (See Appendix)
EMERGENCY POLICY:
There will be at least one staff person on the premises during all hours of operation who has received a basic certificate in first aid from a course approved by the American Red Cross as well as instruction by a health care professional on the observation of the health needs of children.
In case of illness or accident, appropriate first aid will be administered. If the illness or injury is serious, the child’s parent or guardian designated on the student’s “Registration Form” will be contacted and emergency care will be solicited immediately.
The Program staff will notify a parent immediately in the event of a serious accident or injury and will notify the parent of a minor accident or injury at the end of the day. Written documentation of the type of injury, date, and method of notifying parents will be kept on file at the center for two years after the injury or accident.
Emergency evacuation procedures are posted in a location in the center conspicuous to staff and children. The procedures will be implemented through monthly practice drills. Emergency telephone numbers will be posted in a conspicuous place near each telephone.
CHILD ABUSE POLICY:
As a licensed daycare facility, the Program staff is required by law to report any suspected case of child abuse to the appropriate agency.
FORBIDDEN ACTIONS POLICY:
Reference is made to 22VAC 15-30-487. Forbidden Actions
The following are considered unacceptable discipline measures:
➢ Physical punishment, striking a child, roughly handling or shaking a child, restricting movement through binding or tying, forcing a child to assume an uncomfortable position, or exercise as punishment;
➢ Enclosure in a small, confined space or any space that the child cannot freely exit himself; however, this does not apply to the use of equipment such as cribs, play yards, high chairs, and safety gates when used with children preschool or younger for their intended use;
➢ Punishment by another child;
➢ Separation from the group so that the child is away from the hearing and vision of a staff member;
➢ Withholding or forcing of food and rest;
➢ Verbal remarks which are demeaning to the child;
➢ Punishment of toileting accidents;
➢ Punishment by applying unpleasant or harmful substances.
Each staff member is aware of this policy.
FOOD POLICY:
A. SNACKS MAY BE BROUGHT FROM HOME PROVIDED:
the food does not require refrigeration or any special storage;
the food is properly wrapped to prevent it from becoming dirty or otherwise inedible;
your child is instructed not to share this food because of possible food allergies or special diets of other children.
the food items are marked with your child’s name and date.
A. SNACKS MAY BE BROUGHT FOR SHARING TO CELEBRATE A BIRTHDAY, ETC. PROVIDED:
the snack is shared among all members of your child’s group.
B. NUTRITIONALLY SOUND SNACKS ARE IMPORTANT FOR YOUR CHILD.
We ask that you not send candy or other empty calorie “junk food” as a snack. Additionally, while cookies or other dessert type food may be sent, this should only be as a supplement to a nutritional snack, such as fruits, vegetables, muffins, cold, dry cereal, or fruit juice (not sweetened water-based beverages).
D. If your child has a food allergy or is on a special diet, the Extended Day
Program staff must be informed in writing, even if you provide a daily snack from home.
HOMEWORK POLICY:
On most days, a time is provided for doing homework immediately after snack until approximately 4:30 PM. We encourage the children to do their homework during this period. It is not the responsibility of the staff to see that children do their homework. This must be the child’s responsibility. This study time is optional for the students. This does not mean that all homework will be completed. It would be beneficial to check your child’s assignments.
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY:
When school opens late due to inclement weather, the morning session will delay opening, and will end when school opens. (For example, if school opening is delayed two hours until 10:00 AM, the morning session will delay opening for two hours until 8:00 AM.)
When school closes early due to inclement weather or any other emergency situation, there will be no Extended Day. Children must be picked up as soon as possible. To ensure the safety of all, please make every effort to have your child picked up promptly after school closes.
PROCEDURES:
ARRIVAL IN THE MORNING: Parents should bring their child into the building. Sign your child in with the Program staff indicating the time of arrival. Children may not be dropped off to come into the building by themselves, and may not be left before 6:00 AM.
DEPARTURE: Children attending the After School Extended Day must be signed out by a parent, indicating time of departure, and must be picked up by 6:00 PM. Children are not allowed to sign themselves in or out. If someone other than the parent is to pick up the child(ren), please notify the Program Director in writing. This person must show an ID before any child will be released to him/her. Extended Day Program staff are not responsible for children until they report to the Program.
Late Pickup Procedures
If a parent arrives late consistently (after their registered pick up time), their child's registered session will be changed to a later session and the parent will be charged appropriately. If a parent arrives after the close of the program (6:00 PM), they will be charged $5 for pickup anytime between 6:00 PM and 6:15 PM. After 6:15 PM the parent will be charged the original $5 fee plus $1 per minute for every minute after 6:15 PM. Repeat offenders will be asked to make other daycare arrangements for their child.
NO PICK-UP PROCEDURES: If a student is not picked up by 6:00 PM, the following procedure will be followed:
6:00 PM – 6:30 PM The staff will attempt to contact parent by
phone.
6:30 PM – 7:00 PM The staff will call emergency contacts, and
request that they pick up the child.
If emergency contacts are not available for pick-up:
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM The staff will try to notify parents and
emergency contacts again. The school principal will be made aware of the situation.
9:00 PM Child Protective Services will be notified.
Students participating in the after school Extended Day Program will report to the assigned room at the end of the school day. Attendance will be taken each day.
ACTIVITIES:
Each segment of the program provides the children an opportunity to eat lunch or snack, (depending on time of day), to rest, to play outdoors (weather permitting), to study, and to participate in loosely structured, supervised activities, such as arts and crafts, games, and sports appropriate to the children’s ages.
CHANGE OF CLOTHES:
Parents of students are encouraged to send play clothes with their children each day. Children are given an opportunity to change their clothes before play begins. It is strongly recommended that girls change into a pair of pants so that they may comfortably engage in physical play.
REST PERIOD:
Kindergarten and grade school students will not be given a special rest period. Your child will be given a regular rest period only if you request one in writing.
COMMUNICATION BETWEEN PARENT AND STAFF:
Communication between parent and the staff members is encouraged at all times. Personal visits to the center during hours of operation are welcome. No advance notice is required.
APPENDICES
Please go to our school’s website for copies of the Diocesan and Aquinas School Forms:
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[1] Appendix AJ for a listing of lawful non-immigrants who may attend school.
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Pre-K / KINDERGARTEN
Pre-K / Kindergarten students will follow the Grades 1-4 uniform code modified in the following way:
• Students may wear sneakers or school shoes.
• Belts are not required.
• Teachers may assign special days where students are not required to wear their uniform.
BOYS
a. Navy blue trousers from Flynn & O’Hara
b Blue Oxford shirt with button-down collar, long or short sleeves
c. Navy v-neck sweater or vest with white trim and Aquinas crest*
d. Aquinas blue plaid tie
e. Navy blue socks only
f. Solid black, navy, or dark brown belt
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